Police Launch Probe After Armed Thugs Attack INEC PVC Distribution Centre In Osun

The Osun State Police Command has launched an investigation into an attack on officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by suspected armed thugs who carted away Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) during a distribution exercise in Odo-Otin Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the incident occurred at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, where INEC officials were distributing PVCs ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election.

Ojelabi said about 10 armed hoodlums stormed the venue, fired gunshots into the air and fled with three packs of PVCs.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, had condemned the attack and ordered a comprehensive investigation to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible.

The police spokesperson disclosed that tactical and intelligence teams had been deployed to track down the suspects and recover the stolen voter cards.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism, the rule of law and ensuring a peaceful electoral process, urging residents to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.

Ojelabi also appealed to members of the public and eyewitnesses with useful information to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its emergency lines.

He warned that anyone seeking to exploit the incident to incite violence or disrupt public order would face the full weight of the law.

The police further announced that normalcy had been restored in Ile-Ife after officers dispersed suspected thugs whose activities around the Mayfair Garage area temporarily disrupted public peace.

Ojelabi assured residents of the command’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State.