Osun election police probe PVC theft after INEC officials attacked

• The Osun state police command has launched an investigation into the alleged attack on INEC officials and theft of PVCs.
• Tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs.
• Reports emerged of INEC officials being attacked during the Osun state election, resulting in the theft of several PVCs.
• The police investigation is informed by provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the Criminal Code Law of Osun State.

Tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed, and efforts have been intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs.

The Osun state police command has launched an investigation into the alleged attack on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and the theft of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs. The investigation comes after reports emerged of INEC officials being attacked during the Osun state election, resulting in the theft of several PVCs. The police are working closely with other security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attack and theft are brought to justice.

The incident highlights concerns about voter intimidation and the need for electoral law enforcement in Nigeria. Section 139 of the Electoral Act 2026 requires INEC officials to be protected during elections, while Section 143 makes it an offense to intimidate or threaten voters. The police investigation is also informed by the provisions of the Criminal Code Law of Osun State, which prescribes penalties for offenses such as theft and assault. Lawyers advising clients on the Osun election should be aware of these legal frameworks and take steps to ensure their clients' voting rights are protected.

The Osun state police probe into the alleged attack on INEC officials and PVC theft has significant implications for electoral security in Nigeria. The incident underscores the need for robust voter card security measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in future elections. Moreover, it highlights the importance of effective collaboration between law enforcement agencies and electoral bodies to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. As the country prepares for future elections, this case serves as a reminder of the critical role that security agencies must play in protecting voters and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

Lawyers advising clients on the Osun election should be aware of the potential for voter intimidation and take steps to ensure their clients' voting rights are protected.

Source: Original reporting via Vanguard News