Police Bar Amotekun, Vigilantes From Osun Governorship Poll Security

The Nigeria Police Force has barred Amotekun, vigilante groups, hunters and other non-state security outfits from taking part in security operations for the Osun governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.

The directive means the groups are not allowed to escort electoral materials, guard polling units, mount checkpoints or carry arms for election-related work. Police said constitutionally recognised security agencies would handle the poll across the state’s 30 local government areas.

The warning was issued by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu on behalf of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu. It covered Amotekun, the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits.

Police also warned parties, candidates and supporters against ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying, thuggery and clashes. Anyone who deploys or sponsors unauthorised security outfits for the election risks arrest and prosecution, according to the statement.

The restriction comes as Osun enters the final stretch before the governorship vote, with political tension already heightened by recent allegations and counter-claims among party figures.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard