The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, on Friday convened a strategic meeting with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and key stakeholders in Osogbo as preparations intensify ahead of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15.
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‎The meeting, which took place at the Government House, was aimed at addressing rising political tension and strengthening security arrangements to prevent electoral violence before, during, and after the poll.
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‎The election, organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was earlier shifted from August 8 to August 15 to allow for improved logistical planning and voter participation.
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‎IGP Disu arrived with senior police officers, including the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 7, AIG Fasuba Olabode, alongside other top security officials. During his visit, he is also expected to engage personnel of the Osun State Police Command as well as traditional rulers to enhance coordination and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
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‎Speaking at the meeting, the IGP urged residents to shun violence and warned that the police would take firm action against anyone attempting to disrupt public peace. He also appealed to parents and guardians to discourage their wards from being used as political thugs, stressing that the police would not tolerate electoral misconduct.
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‎Governor Adeleke, in his response, called on the police to remain neutral and professional throughout the election period, emphasizing the need for fairness and public trust in the process.
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‎INEC has disclosed that Osun State has 1,954,800 registered voters, with 1,594,006 Permanent Voter Cards already collected, while 360,794 remain unclaimed. The commission also reaffirmed that only voters with valid PVCs will be allowed to participate.
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‎It further stated that campaign activities must end 24 hours before election day, and all media organisations covering the election must complete accreditation within the stipulated deadline.