The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has declared that the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), vigilance groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force (JTF), hunters’ associations, community-based security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits have no role in the conduct of security operations for the August 15 Osun State governorship election.

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The Force said responsibility for election security rests solely with constitutionally recognised security agencies, warning that unauthorised groups must not participate in any aspect of the electoral process.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police also warned political parties, candidates, supporters and residents against engaging in electoral violence, intimidation, vote buying, ballot snatching or any act capable of disrupting the peaceful conduct of the election. The Force stressed that offenders, regardless of political affiliation or status, would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The police further prohibited members of Amotekun and other non-state security organisations from escorting election materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or carrying weapons in connection with the governorship poll. The NPF urged all stakeholders to comply with electoral laws and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a peaceful, free, fair and credible election across Osun State.