Blessing Bello, Reporting
THE Nigeria Police Force has deployed approximately 15,000 personnel to Osun State ahead of the 15th August governorship election, with a firm warning that any individual or group attempting to disrupt the electoral process will be arrested and prosecuted.
Commissioner of Police for election in Osun State, Samuel Etaifo Erale, disclosed the deployment on Wednesday while addressing officers in Osogbo, the state capital.
Erale said the massive deployment was part of the mandate given to him by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to create a level playing field for all political parties and ensure that residents can exercise their franchise without fear, intimidation or harassment.
High-Ranking Officers Involved
According to the election Commissioner, the deployment comprises Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, the Police Mobile Force and other specialised units.
Senior officers, including a Deputy Inspector-General of Police and an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, are also expected to join the security operation, he added.
Early Deployment Due To Political Tension
Erale revealed that while the police had originally planned to deploy personnel three to four days before the election, the prevailing political tension in the state prompted the Inspector-General to order an earlier arrival.
The Commissioner said the early deployment was aimed at restoring confidence among residents, securing critical locations and creating a safe environment for voters, political actors, INEC officials and other stakeholders.
“My mandate is to create a level playing field and make sure everyone exercises their franchise,” Erale stated. “We want to give all political parties equal opportunity and ensure that the people of Osun State can come out and vote without fear.”
Movement Cleared For Other Agencies
He explained that the police had also cleared the road for the safe movement and arrival of other security agencies, as well as officials and materials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The police have assured residents that adequate security measures are in place to guarantee a peaceful and credible electoral process.
