Police launch investigation as armed attackers disrupt PVC distribution ahead of Osun governorship election
Armed hoodlums have attacked officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State, carting away three packs of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) during an ongoing distribution exercise.
The incident, confirmed by the Osun State Police Command, is the latest security concern ahead of the August 15, 2026, Osun State Governorship Election.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Osogbo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed that about ten armed suspects stormed the PVC distribution centre at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, where INEC officials were attending to prospective voters.
Attackers Fired Gunshots Before Escaping With PVCs
According to the police, the hoodlums fired several gunshots into the air, forcing electoral officials and residents to flee for safety before making away with three packs of Permanent Voter Cards.
The command described the attack as a direct assault on the electoral process and assured residents that efforts were underway to recover the stolen materials and apprehend those responsible.
Police Commissioner Orders Immediate Investigation
The Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, has strongly condemned the incident and directed the immediate commencement of a comprehensive investigation.
According to the police spokesperson, tactical operatives and intelligence teams have already been deployed to track down the suspects and recover the stolen PVCs.
“Tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed, and efforts have been intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs,” Ojelabi stated.
The police reiterated their commitment to professionalism, public safety, and the protection of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Residents Urged To Remain Calm
The command appealed to residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing investigations.
It also warned that anyone attempting to exploit the incident to incite violence or disrupt public order would face the full weight of the law.
Police Restore Order In Ile-Ife
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command also confirmed that normalcy has been restored in Ile-Ife following a separate disturbance involving suspected hoodlums around the Mayfair Garage area.
According to the command, security operatives responded swiftly to the situation, restoring peace and preventing further breakdown of law and order.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting public property, and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere across Osun State before, during, and after the forthcoming governorship election.
