Tunji Disu Assures Nigerians of Impartial Security Ahead of August 15 Polls
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has issued a firm pledge that the Nigeria Police Force will remain professional, apolitical, and impartial before, during, and after the upcoming Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
Disu made the declaration on Friday in Abuja during a high-level meeting with civil society organisations (CSOs) led by Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC).
“We Have No Candidate”—IGP
Addressing concerns over election security, voter intimidation, thuggery, and the neutrality of security agencies, the IGP struck a defiant tone:
“The Nigeria Police Force remains a professional, apolitical and impartial institution. We have no candidate, no political party and no vested interest in the outcome of the election other than ensuring that the lawful choice of the people prevails.”
He assured Nigerians that comprehensive security arrangements are already in place, with adequate personnel and operational assets deployed across the state. Intelligence gathering and threat assessments have also been intensified to neutralise potential dangers before they escalate.
Zero Tolerance for Electoral Offences
Disu warned that anyone—regardless of political affiliation or status—caught engaging in vote buying, voter intimidation, ballot box snatching, or thuggery would face the full weight of the law.
“No political ambition is worth the loss of a single Nigerian life,” he said, urging political leaders to prevail on their supporters to reject violence and respect the rule of law.
He also called on Osun residents to come out confidently to vote, adding:
“Do not allow yourselves to be intimidated by rumours, misinformation, or the actions of a few individuals who seek to undermine the democratic process.”
CSOs Share Concerns, Offer Recommendations
Earlier, Rafsanjani noted that the meeting reflected a shared commitment to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. He expressed worry over political tensions in the country and stressed the importance of safety and security during the electoral process.
“We believe that with your track record, you will be able to lead this very important national assignment that we are going to have come 2027.”
Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, said CSOs have independently monitored the pre-election environment in Osun over the past months, compiling evidence on emerging election security risks.
He described the Osun election as “a unique opportunity to inspire public trust” in election management and security, adding that it would serve as a mirror for the 2027 general elections.
Itodo noted that the neutrality of the police and other security agencies remains a “particular concern” among the electorate.
Collaboration and Coordination
The IGP reaffirmed that the police are working closely with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) , INEC, and other stakeholders to ensure effective coordination throughout the electoral process.
