Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tunji Disu on Friday met with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and other key stakeholders in Osogbo as part of intensified efforts to prevent political violence ahead of the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
The high-level security meeting, held at the Government House in Osogbo, comes amid growing concerns over rising political tensions ahead of the off-cycle governorship poll.
The IGP was accompanied by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 7, AIG Fasuba Olabode, and other senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
As part of his visit, Disu is also expected to engage officers and personnel of the Osun State Police Command, as well as traditional rulers and other stakeholders, to strengthen collaboration aimed at ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.
Addressing stakeholders, the Inspector-General urged residents to reject violence and any form of electoral misconduct, warning that the Nigeria Police Force would take decisive action against individuals or groups seeking to disrupt public peace before, during, or after the election.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from being recruited as political thugs, stressing that security agencies would not tolerate acts of intimidation or violence throughout the electoral process.
In his remarks, Governor Adeleke called on the police to remain professional, impartial, and politically neutral during the election.
According to the governor, his administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy for violence, thuggery, and electoral malpractice.
“I reaffirmed my administration’s zero tolerance for violence, thuggery, and all forms of electoral misconduct. Anyone found culpable, regardless of status or political affiliation, must be arrested and made to face the full weight of the law,” Adeleke said.
The governor welcomed the Inspector-General’s assurance that security agencies would ensure a peaceful election, adding that his administration would continue to work closely with all security agencies to safeguard lives, property, and the integrity of the electoral process.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct the Osun governorship election on August 15, following the rescheduling of the poll from its initial August 8 date to allow for improved logistical preparations.
According to INEC, Osun State has 1,954,800 registered voters, with 1,594,006 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs)already collected, while 360,794 PVCs remain unclaimed. The commission has reiterated that only eligible voters with valid PVCs will be allowed to participate in the election.
INEC also reminded political parties that campaigns must end 24 hours before election day, while media organisations covering the exercise are required to complete their accreditation before the stipulated deadline.
