Police bar Amotekun from Osun election

Ahead of the 15 August 2026 Nigeria — Osun State Governorship Election, the Nigeria — Nigeria Police Force, through the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 11, issued a directive barring the Eastern Security Network (Amotekun), vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch outfits, and other quasi-security organisations from participating in security operations during the poll. The police stated that only constitutionally recognised security agencies will be responsible for providing security before, during and after the election. All deployed personnel must be properly identified and dressed in approved official uniforms. The directive warns that any individual or group engaging in unauthorised security activities or attempting to intimidate voters, electoral officials, or other stakeholders will be dealt with in accordance with the law. The police urged political parties, candidates, supporters, and the public to conduct themselves peacefully and cooperate with security agencies and officials of the Nigeria — Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The decision aims to ensure professionalism, neutrality, and effective coordination of security operations throughout the electoral process.