Suspected political thugs on Sunday, July 26, stormed a permanent voter's card (PVC) distribution centre in Okuku, headquarters of Odo-Otin Local Government Area, and carted away three packs of PVCs, according to the Osun State Police Command. The incident occurred at the Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, where INEC officials were distributing cards when the attackers struck.
Attack details and police response
The spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed that about ten armed hoodlums invaded the centre, fired sporadically into the air, and seized three packs of PVCs before fleeing. "They arrived suddenly, shooting to scare away residents and officials, and made off with the cards before our officers could reach the scene," Ojelabi said. He added that the State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has condemned the attack and ordered a comprehensive investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.
INEC condemns the theft
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of INEC in Osun, Oluwatoyin Babalola, also condemned the attack. She stated that she was awaiting a detailed report and was yet to ascertain the exact number of PVCs stolen. "This is a serious breach of the electoral process. We will work with security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice," Babalola said.
Context of the attack
The attack comes ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15. PVC distribution centres have been operational across the state to enable eligible voters to collect their cards ahead of the poll. The theft raises concerns about voter disenfranchisement and election security in the region.
Local residents expressed fear following the incident, with many calling for enhanced security at distribution points. The police have urged calm and assured the public of their commitment to safeguarding the electoral process.
