OSOGBO – The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,000 personnel across Osun State to provide security during the August 15, 2026 governorship election, as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful, credible and violence-free electoral process.

The deployment was announced by the Osun State Commandant of the NSCDC, Igbalawole Sotiyo, during a strategic security meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Officers and Tactical Commanders at the command headquarters in Osogbo. According to a statement issued on Monday by the command’s spokesperson, Kehinde Adeleke, the large-scale deployment was approved by the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, who is expected to personally supervise the election security operation in the state.

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Sotiyo charged officers and men of the corps to remain strictly apolitical, impartial and professional, stressing that the credibility of the NSCDC and public confidence in the agency would largely depend on the conduct of its personnel throughout the election period. He warned officers against engaging in acts capable of bringing the corps into disrepute or compromising the integrity of the electoral process.

“I urge you not to put the name of the corps into disrepute. Be apolitical, maintain neutrality and respect fundamental human rights. Discharge your duties strictly in line with the corps’ Standard Operating Procedures and other extant laws guiding election security operations,” Sotiyo said.

The commandant further directed Area Commanders and other senior officers to ensure that personnel under their supervision remain disciplined, responsive and committed to their constitutional responsibilities before, during and after the election. He described the NSCDC as a professional and non-partisan security agency with the responsibility of protecting lives and property, safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, and supporting the maintenance of law and order.

Sotiyo reminded officers that the governorship election is a constitutional exercise that requires security agencies to provide an atmosphere where eligible voters can exercise their civic rights without intimidation, harassment or fear. He urged personnel to treat members of the public with courtesy and respect while carrying out their election duties.

He also assured residents of Osun State that the NSCDC would work closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to guarantee adequate security across the state throughout the election. According to him, the corps remains fully prepared to discharge its responsibilities professionally without compromising its neutrality.

The NSCDC boss equally appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security agencies and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities through appropriate channels. He assured residents that the corps would remain vigilant before, during and after the governorship election to ensure the protection of lives, property and the overall credibility of the electoral process.