The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) has commended the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the leadership and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force for their professionalism in maintaining peace during the Osun State election.
CRAN said the police demonstrated commendable commitment to protecting voters, electoral officials and other citizens throughout the exercise, despite the heightened political tension and apprehension that preceded the polls.
In a statement signed by its President, Olalekan Olabulo, the association said the largely peaceful conduct of the election reflected the effectiveness of the security arrangements put in place by the police and other security agencies.
The association particularly praised the strategic deployment of security personnel, early identification of potential flashpoints and the proactive measures adopted to prevent threats from escalating into violence.
According to CRAN, the restraint and discipline displayed by police officers during the election underscored the importance of a firm but fair approach to electoral security, rather than the excessive use of force.
The association noted that intelligence led policing and effective management of identified hotspots played a significant role in deterring potential threats and creating a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
As an organisation of journalists covering crime, security and related matters, CRAN said peaceful elections remained critical to strengthening democracy, the rule of law and public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
It urged the police to sustain the standard demonstrated in Osun by deepening cooperation with other security agencies, electoral authorities, political parties, civil society organisations and the media ahead of future elections.
CRAN also called on political actors and their supporters to reciprocate the professionalism of security personnel by respecting electoral procedures and avoiding inflammatory statements or actions capable of undermining public peace.
The association said the Osun experience should serve as a reference point for future electoral security planning, stressing that continuous review, intelligence gathering, professionalism, restraint and interagency cooperation would be essential to protecting lives and safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic processes.