Political tensions in Osun State intensified on Sunday, 26 July 2026, after suspected armed hoodlums attacked Independent National Electoral Commission officials distributing Permanent Voter Cards at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, Odo-Otin Local Government Area, carting away three packs of PVCs.
The Osun INEC Officials Attack has prompted the Osun State Police Command to launch an investigation, deploy tactical teams and begin efforts to arrest the suspected attackers and recover the stolen electoral materials.
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According to the police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, about 10 armed individuals stormed the venue during the PVC distribution exercise and fired sporadically into the air before taking away the voter cards.
“The hoodlums reportedly fired sporadically into the air and carted away three packs of PVCs,” Mr Ojelabi said in a statement issued on Sunday.
The police spokesperson said Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan condemned the incident and ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
“Tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed, and efforts have been intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs,” Mr Ojelabi added.
The attack comes amid heightened political activity in Osun State, where electoral preparations and political engagements have increased ahead of future contests.
The theft of voter cards has raised concerns over election security and the protection of sensitive electoral materials.
The police command assured residents that it remains committed to maintaining peace and protecting democratic processes.
Authorities also urged members of the public to avoid actions that could further disrupt public order.
Residents and witnesses with relevant information have been encouraged to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its emergency channels to support the ongoing investigation.
Electoral violence and attacks on election-related personnel have remained a recurring concern in Nigeria, with security agencies and electoral authorities repeatedly stressing the need for peaceful participation and stronger protection of election officials.
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The Osun incident adds to wider calls for improved security arrangements around electoral activities, particularly during voter registration, PVC distribution and election periods.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
