The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to professionalism, impartiality and neutrality throughout the Osun State governorship election.
Disu stated this on Friday when he engaged representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on security concerns surrounding the forthcoming election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
He assured that adequate personnel would be deployed to polling units, with special attention given to persons with disabilities to facilitate their safe participation.
Describing the election as particularly significant as the last off-cycle election before the 2027 General Elections, the IGP called on all stakeholders to support a peaceful and credible process that strengthens public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
The IGP, according to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, assured the CSOs that the concerns raised would be given due consideration and necessary action taken.
He further called for continued collaboration with CSOs through timely sharing of credible information and responsible public communication before, during and after the election.
He also said that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to strengthening its operational preparedness and protecting the democratic process throughout the electoral period.
The delegation was led by Auwal Rafsanjani, who is the Executive Director of CISLAC, and comprised representatives of YIAGA Africa, Nigerian Women Trust Fund, Kimpact Development Initiative, Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, Partners West Africa, CLEEN Foundation and other CSOs.
The CSOs presented observations and recommendations on election security, including voter protection, political violence, misinformation and the participation of vulnerable groups.
The election, which has over two million registered voters, is expected to be held across the 30 local government areas of the state.
Fourteen political parties have fielded candidates for the exercise.
