The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has called for the immediate suspension of the planned local government elections in Osun State.
This was contained in a statement on Friday, signed by the Force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi claimed that they had received credible intelligence indicating a high likelihood of violence and significant security threats should the elections proceed.
According to him: “Various groups, including political elements and other interested parties, are mobilising to instigate unrest, disrupt public peace, and undermine the democratic order.
“Given this imminent threat to security, the NPF strongly advises the Osun State Government to suspend the planned elections forthwith in the interest of public safety and national stability.”
However, the statement added: “the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, is fully prepared to take decisive action to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“Nevertheless, to avert unnecessary confrontation and safeguard the democratic process, it is in the best interest of all stakeholders that the elections be stood down.”
Governor Ademola Adeleke had on Friday announced a restriction on vehicular movement from 5 am to 5 pm.
According to a statement from Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson to the state governor, the restriction will be in force on election day, Saturday, 22nd February 2022, across Osun State.
