Osun 2026: Notify police before holding any political rally, CP Gotan tells parties

By Isa Isawade

The Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, mnips has urged political parties participating in the contest of the gubernatorial election billed for 15 August 2026 to notify the police authorities in the state before holding any political rallies.

Gortan said this at the interactive session with critical stakeholders ahead of the election on Wednesday at the Police Headquarters in Osogbo, Osun State.

This follows occurrences of violent incidents which have characterised political campaigns in the state.

Incidents of violence have been on the increase during campaigns held by parties’ candidates’ supporters during which accusations and counter accusations have been made even against the police institution itself.

The police boss also condemned the destruction, defacement, or removal of opponents’ billboards, banners, posters, and other campaign materials which have been the hallmark of Osun political campaigns.

He also warned against making inflammatory statements that could incite the public and breach the peace of the state.

Below is the full statement of the Police Commissioner:

AN ADDRESS BY COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, CP IBRAHIM GOTAN, mnips DURING THE INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH CRITICAL STAKEHOLDERS ON WEDNESDAY 24TH JUNE, 2026 AT STATE HEADQUARTERS, OSOGBO, OSUN STATE; AHEAD OF FORTHCOMING OSUN STATE GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION

Distinguished stakeholders, political party leaders, candidates, civil society representatives, members of the media, and all participants, I wish to sincerely appreciate everyone present at this important meeting ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.

As we collectively prepare for a peaceful, credible, and violence-free electoral process, it is important to emphasize some key responsibilities expected of all political actors and their supporters.

Firstly, political parties and candidates should ensure that the Police and other relevant security agencies are adequately notified before any rally, campaign, procession, or political gathering. Early notification will enable security agencies to deploy personnel effectively, provide adequate security coverage, manage traffic, prevent clashes, and ensure the safety of participants as well as members of the public. Security agencies can only plan effectively when they are informed in good time.

Secondly, the destruction, defacement, or removal of opponents’ billboards, banners, posters, and other campaign materials must stop. Such acts are not only unlawful but are capable of provoking retaliation, creating tension, and escalating political hostility. Political competition should be based on ideas, policies, and programmes, not on the destruction of property belonging to opponents.

Thirdly, stakeholders are strongly advised to avoid late-night rallies and campaign activities. Campaigns conducted late into the night often present security challenges, increase the likelihood of criminal activities, and make effective monitoring difficult. Political engagements should be conducted within reasonable hours to safeguard public safety and maintain law and order.

Furthermore, all campaign activities, rallies, public engagements, and political communications must strictly conform with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws. Compliance with the law is essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring a level playing field for all contestants. No individual or political group is above the law.

We must also strongly discourage all forms of thuggery, gangsterism, and the recruitment or sponsorship of political thugs. Violence and intimidation have no place in a democratic society. Political leaders should caution their supporters against acts capable of disrupting public peace and should refrain from providing support, encouragement, or protection to individuals who engage in criminal conduct.

In addition, hate speech, inflammatory comments, and inciting statements must be completely avoided. Words have consequences. Statements capable of provoking violence, promoting ethnic, religious, or political divisions, or inciting supporters against opponents can undermine the peaceful atmosphere required for a successful election. Political discourse should remain respectful, issue-based, and constructive.

Finally, all stakeholders must embrace a violence-free campaign environment. There should be no attacks, counter-attacks, reprisals, or acts of political vengeance. Differences in political opinion should not translate into hostility or violence. Every political party and candidate should commit to peaceful coexistence before, during, and after the election. The security agencies remain committed to ensuring law and order, but lasting peace can only be achieved through the cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders.

As we move closer to election day, let us all remember that peace is a collective responsibility. The people of Osun State deserve a free, fair, credible, and peaceful election. Let us therefore conduct ourselves in a manner that strengthens democracy, promotes stability, and safeguards the lives and property of all citizens.

Thank you, and may peace continue to prevail in Osun State.