The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has clarified that the removal of Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, was prompted by complaints from politicians and political parties who said they had lost confidence in him ahead of the August 15 governorship election. Disu made this announcement during a press briefing that circulated on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
Why Gotan Was Asked to Step Aside
Disu emphasized that the decision was not due to any disciplinary issue or misconduct. Instead, it followed concerns raised by several political stakeholders. "For the first time, we introduced the electoral commissioner of police who will be taking charge of the elections earlier, when we noticed that certain groups of politicians and parties were complaining that they no longer trust the commissioner of police," Disu said. He added, "So, the commissioner of police was asked to stand aside while the electoral commissioner of police moved in earlier."
The Nigeria Police Force has introduced the position of an Electoral Commissioner of Police specifically to oversee election security in Osun and ensure all parties have confidence in the process. This move is part of broader efforts to bolster trust in the electoral system.
Reinforcements Deployed Ahead of Election
Disu revealed that additional senior officers will be deployed to Osun before election day to strengthen security arrangements. "The AIG in charge of the election will be moving in any moment from now. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, who will be taking charge of the Osun election, will also be moving in," he stated. All officers assigned to the election have received clear instructions on how to handle their duties professionally.
"They have specific instructions. We the police are in charge of internal security. We are the lead organisation in charge of this election," Disu affirmed. He also noted that the police will cooperate with other sister agencies to ensure a secure environment.
Security Measures and Peace Assurance
Addressing fears of potential violence, Disu assured residents that security personnel have already been deployed across various parts of Osun State to maintain peace before, during, and after the election. These deployments are intended to prevent any breakdown of law and order and to allow eligible voters to cast their ballots without intimidation.
The Osun governorship election is scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, seeking re-election on the Accord Party platform, will face the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as Ambo.
