The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a stern warning against any attempt to disrupt the upcoming governorship election in Osun State, set for Saturday, August 15, 2026. Commandant-General Abubakar Audi emphasized that individuals attempting to sabotage the electoral process will face decisive action. This warning follows heightened security concerns as tensions rise among political factions, with reports of violence and threats emerging during the campaign period. The NSCDC, working in tandem with other security agencies, is preparing extensively to ensure the election proceeds smoothly and safely. The NSCDC has deployed 10,210 personnel, including both uniformed and undercover officers, from ten different state commands, Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Kogi, Delta, and the Federal Capital Territory, to bolster security operations in Osun State. The deployment began on Monday and includes specialized units such as the Commandant-General’s Special Intelligence Squad, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit, Specialised Female Squad, Mining Marshals, Special Strike Force, Crack Squad, and K9 Unit. These units are tasked with supporting intelligence gathering, crime prevention, asset protection, crowd control, and other election-related security functions. The move complements the existing NSCDC personnel stationed in the state and aims to cover all 30 local government areas effectively. During his visit to Osun State, Commandant-General Audi met with Governor Ademola Adeleke, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and personnel of the NSCDC state command. The governor praised the Commandant-General for personally overseeing the security arrangements and urged the NSCDC to deploy sufficient forces to prevent violence and protect voters. He expressed concern over alleged security threats tied to political groups aiming to intimidate voters. Governor Adeleke called for the identification and arrest of anyone planning to attack voters or interfere with the election process. In addition, Commandant-General Audi visited the INEC state headquarters in Osogbo, where he met with Resident Electoral Commissioner Oluwatoyin Babalola. During the meeting, he reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting electoral infrastructure and critical national assets. He assured the commission of the Corps' operational support during the election, emphasizing that any act of vandalism or interference would be met with serious consequences. Mrs. Babalola acknowledged the NSCDC's presence and highlighted the improved cooperation between INEC and the Corps in securing the election. Commandant-General Audi also addressed NSCDC personnel deployed for the election at the Corps’ state command headquarters. He directed the officers to remain professional, operate within legal boundaries, and respect the rules of engagement. He specifically warned against being “trigger-happy” and stressed the importance of exercising restraint while performing their duties. He further instructed the personnel to maintain close coordination with other security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, which serves as the lead agency for election security. The NSCDC will collaborate with the police, military, and other agencies under the established inter-agency security framework to ensure seamless coordination and a secure environment for voters. The deployment of 10,210 personnel marks a significant escalation in security measures ahead of the August 15 election. This follows the Nigeria Police Force’s announcement of deploying 15,000 personnel to the state, underscoring the scale of the security operation. The NSCDC has also ensured that its personnel are well-briefed on maintaining professionalism, neutrality, and respect for citizens’ rights throughout the election. Commandant-General Audi reiterated that political thugs and criminal-minded individuals intent on disrupting the election will face legal repercussions under the Electoral Act. The Corps has called on political parties, candidates, supporters, and residents to uphold peace and allow the democratic process to unfold without interference.
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