The Osun State Police Command has arrested an officer following the accidental discharge of tear gas at a Registration Area Centre (RAC) in Modakeke Ward 10, Ife East Local Government Area, during the state’s governorship election.
The incident, which occurred on election day, prompted widespread concern after videos circulated on social media showing residents confronting police officers and alleging the tear gas was deployed to disrupt voting. The command moved quickly to counter the narrative, issuing a statement on X clarifying that the discharge did not take place at a polling unit and was not an attempt to intimidate voters.
According to the police, the tear gas was released due to the negligence of an officer who was attempting to relieve himself. The command described the conduct as “highly condemnable” and falling “far below the standard expected of an officer of the Nigeria Police Force.” The officer involved has been taken into custody while an investigation proceeds.
The statement also dismissed claims that the chemical agent was deliberately used to frighten voters or interfere with the electoral process. It further reiterated operational guidelines prohibiting police personnel deployed to polling units from carrying arms or tactical equipment within the designated voting areas.
The episode underscores the heightened scrutiny on security conduct during Elections in Nigeria, where public trust in law enforcement remains fragile. While the police have characterized the event as an isolated act of negligence rather than institutional misconduct, the viral spread of the footage illustrates how quickly such incidents can inflame tensions in an already charged political atmosphere.
Authorities have pledged a thorough investigation, and the outcome will likely be monitored closely by civil society groups and election observers as a test of accountability within the force. The command has urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigative process to run its course.
