The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 11 Headquarters, Osogbo, has banned the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, vigilante groups and other quasi-security outfits from participating in security operations for the August 15 governorship election.

He warned them to keep off poll or be dealt with, saying peace and respect for the rule of law are critical to the success of the election.

The AIG, in a press statement signed by the Zonal PPRO, SP Ojedele Olanrewaju Tunji, on Tuesday in Osogbo, warned that only constitutionally recognised security agencies are authorised to provide security before, during and after the election.

“Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), vigilante group, quasi-security outfit, political organisation, neighbourhood watch group, or any other unauthorised body ARE NOT eligible to perform security functions, provide crowd control, or interfere with the electoral process,” the statement read.

He further warned that any individual or group found engaging in unauthorised security activities or attempting to intimidate voters, electoral officials, or other stakeholders «will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”

The AIG added that all security personnel deployed for election duties must be properly identified and appropriately dressed in their approved official uniforms to ensure accountability and prevent impersonation. He said the Force will deploy identified and properly uniformed personnel to polling units, collation centres and other strategic locations across the 30 LGAs of the state.

The AIG called on political parties, candidates, supporters and the general public to remain law-abiding and cooperate fully with security personnel and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. He urged citizens to report any act of violence, voter intimidation or breach of the peace to security agencies, warning that anyone found violating the Electoral Act or other extant laws will be arrested and prosecuted.

“The Nigeria Police Force, Zone 11 Headquarters, remains committed to safeguarding the electoral process and providing a secure environment that will enable eligible voters to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation,” the AIG said. (Nigerian Tribune)