The Nigeria Police Force has barred the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, vigilante groups and other unauthorised security outfits from participating in security operations during the 2026 Osun State governorship election.
The directive was announced by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone XI in a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday through the zone’s Public Relations Officer, SP Ojedele Olanrewaju.
The police said only constitutionally recognised security agencies would be allowed to provide security before, during and after the governorship election.
According to the statement, the police, working with other authorised security agencies, will be responsible for maintaining law and order throughout the election period.
“As part of efforts to maintain law and order throughout the election period, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other constitutionally recognised security agencies, will be solely responsible for the provision of security before, during and after the election,” the statement declared.
The police also said all security personnel deployed for election duties must be properly identified and wear their approved official uniforms.
The AIG stressed that Amotekun, vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch organisations, political groups and other quasi-security outfits have no role in election security operations.
According to the statement, “Only constitutionally recognised security agencies are authorised to participate in election security operations. Amotekun, vigilante groups, quasi-security outfits, political organisations, neighbourhood watch groups or any other unauthorised body are not eligible to perform security functions, provide crowd control or interfere with the electoral process.”
The police warned that anyone or any group found carrying out unauthorised security duties or attempting to intimidate voters, electoral officials or other stakeholders would face legal consequences.
The command also appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and obey the law throughout the election period.
It urged residents of Osun State to report suspicious movements, acts of violence, voter intimidation or any breach of the peace to the nearest police station or other authorised security agency.
The statement added, “The Nigeria Police Force, Zone XI Headquarters, remains committed to protecting lives and property, safeguarding the electoral process and providing a secure environment that will enable eligible voters to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.”
Police bar Amotekun, vigilantes from Osun governorship election security