Oyo Police Deploy Over 9,000 Officers for LG Election

As part of their effort to make today’s LG polls secure, the Oyo State Police Command has deployed over 9,000 police officers across the state. The Oyo State Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC) Command has also deployed 2,800 operatives to provide additional cover.

This announcement comes after the political parties participating in the Local Government election signed a peace accord with the State Police Command and the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) to conduct themselves in line with electoral guidelines.

The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Ngozi Onadeko addressed party leaders and other stakeholders at the peace accord signing and asked them to ensure that all party members comply with the law and see this election as a way to improve policy at grassroots level.

She also told the party leaders to ensure that all party members follow the rule of law to the letter and not involve themselves in any electoral violence/malpractice, adding that violators would be arrested and prosecuted.

She took the opportunity to assure registered voters that the large police/security presence is to ensure their safety and told them to come out and vote, promising them they would be safe before, during and after the election.

The OYSIEC Chairman, Isiaka Olagunju also spoke and also assured voters that all the authorities involved are working to ensure that their right to vote would be protected. He also echoed the CP’s words and called on the politicians, electorate and other stakeholders involved to work together for the election’s success.

The last time LGA polls were held in Oyo State was in 2018, just before former Governor, Abiola Ajimobi left office. Until now, the LGs have been run by caretaker chairmen appointed by Governor Seyi Makinde after he sacked the APC-appointed council bosses shortly after his inauguration.

Today’s election will be held in the 33 Local Government Areas in Oyo State and will exclude the 35 LCDAs.