Police Arrest 295 Suspects Over Election Violence in Osun

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the arrest of 295 suspects in connection with electoral offences during the recently concluded governorship election in Osun State.

The suspects were apprehended across different polling units and communities during the exercise, following reports of violence, vote-buying, and disruption of voting processes. Police authorities said the arrests were part of efforts to ensure credible elections and maintain law and order.

Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the suspects were being profiled and investigated. He explained that those found culpable would be charged in court in line with Nigeria’s electoral laws.

“During the Osun election, our officers arrested 295 suspects for various offences ranging from vote-buying to disruption of polling activities. Investigations are ongoing, and we will ensure that justice is served,” Adejobi said.

The police spokesperson added that the arrests were made possible through collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other security agencies deployed for the election. He stressed that the force remained committed to protecting Nigeria’s democratic process.

Observers reported incidents of ballot snatching, intimidation of voters, and attempts to influence voting outcomes in some areas. However, security operatives were able to intervene in most cases, leading to the arrests.

Civil society organisations monitoring the election have welcomed the police action, describing it as a deterrent against future electoral malpractice. They urged authorities to ensure that prosecutions are transparent and timely.

Analysts say the arrests highlight the persistent challenge of electoral offences in Nigeria, despite repeated calls for reforms and stricter enforcement of laws. Vote-buying, in particular, has become a recurring issue in state and national elections.

The police assured that lessons from the Osun election would guide future operations, especially as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. Adejobi emphasised that the force would continue to work closely with INEC and stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

The development underscores the growing role of security agencies in Nigeria’s elections, where maintaining peace and curbing malpractice remain critical to democratic consolidation.