As the bye-election for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency draws near, the Oyo State Police Command has assured residents of its full preparedness to ensure a peaceful, credible, and fair electoral process. The election is scheduled to be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Osifeso Adewale, the Command emphasized that multiple security measures and inter-agency collaborations have been put in place to guarantee public safety and uphold the integrity of the election.

According to the police, key stakeholders in the security and electoral space, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, recently held high-level meetings and signed a peace accord. Political aspirants and their supporters pledged to avoid any form of violence or disruption before, during, and after the election.

“We are committed to securing the process. No form of intimidation or violence will be tolerated,” the statement read.

The Command also led a joint show of force with other security agencies to demonstrate its readiness and send a strong message to potential troublemakers.

According to the police, only authorised security agencies are permitted at polling units. Quasi-security outfits are banned. Campaigning and political insignia are strictly prohibited at polling centers. Alcohol sales and consumption near polling areas are banned. No uniformed personnel are allowed to escort candidates to voting areas. Financial inducements and vote-buying tactics will attract legal consequences, and possession of weapons will result in arrest and prosecution.

To ensure a secure environment, movement restrictions will be enforced from 12:00 midnight to 5:00 PM on election day in the following areas – Ibadan North, Ibadan North East, Ibadan South West, and adjoining boundaries.

Road closures and observation points include Agbarigbo–Jembewon Road, Adamasingba–Danax Intersection, Bere–Oje Road, Idi-Ape Junction, Ojoo Road Stretch, Ajibode Junction, Ihokodo–Apete Road by Custom Barracks, and Eleyele–Sango Road.

The police say they will deploy high-visibility patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence-driven raids, and continuous surveillance throughout the metropolis.

Parents, guardians, and community leaders are urged to discourage youth from being used for electoral violence or thuggery. Violators of election laws and security directives will face prosecution. “Let us work together to protect democracy and ensure a violence-free election,” CSP Osifeso said.