The Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring a peaceful, secure and credible governorship election in the state, urging all stakeholders to work together to prevent electoral violence.
The Commissioner gave the assurance in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, at a one-day Town Hall Meeting on Peaceful Elections organised by the Digital Africa Research and Safety Lab (DIGIAFRICALAB).
Addressing representatives of government institutions, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media, political parties and members of the public, Gotan stressed that free, fair and credible elections remain the cornerstone of every democratic society.
He said the Nigeria Police Force was committed to providing a secure environment where every eligible voter could exercise the constitutional right to vote without fear, intimidation, harassment or violence.
The police commissioner, however, noted that the responsibility of conducting peaceful elections should not be left to the police alone, calling for stronger collaboration among INEC, National Orientation Agency (NOA), security agencies, political parties, candidates, the media, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and the electorate.
According to him, all stakeholders have a responsibility to reject violence, discourage hate speech, prevent the spread of misinformation and uphold the rule of law throughout the electoral process.
“The Osun State Police Command will continue to enforce electoral laws impartially, prevent electoral offences, protect electoral personnel and materials, safeguard lives and property, and respond professionally and promptly to any election-related incident,” he said.
He assured residents that the command would remain guided by the principles of neutrality, accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights in the discharge of its election security responsibilities.
Gotan also appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully, respect opposing views and resolve disputes through lawful and democratic means.
“Violence has never produced a legitimate mandate; it only leaves communities with regret and unnecessary suffering,” he said.
As the state prepares for the forthcoming governorship election, the police commissioner urged all residents to embrace dialogue, tolerance, mutual respect and patriotism, saying collective efforts would ensure an electoral process that reflects the true will of the people and strengthens Nigeria’s democracy.
He reiterated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police and the officers and men of the Osun State Police Command to maintaining peace and security before, during and after the election.
The town hall meeting brought together key electoral stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting peaceful elections, safeguarding digital rights and tackling misinformation ahead of the Osun governorship poll.
