Ibadan North Bye-Election: Oyo Police Vow Credible Poll, Ban Alcohol, Vote-Buying and Unauthorised Security

The Oyo State Police Command has declared its full readiness to ensure a peaceful, credible, and fair electoral process during the Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Osifeso Adewale, the Command assured residents that “we are fully prepared for the bye-election… We assure the public of a credible, secure, and fair electoral process.”
The statement noted that multiple initiatives had been undertaken to bolster security and protect the integrity of the polls, including consultations with key stakeholders and the signing of a peace accord involving political aspirants and their supporters.

“This accord entails a collective commitment to refrain from any violent or destructive actions that could potentially disrupt the peace during, before, during and after the elections,” the Command said.
Osifeso explained that the Command had also organised a joint show of force with other security agencies to demonstrate its operational readiness. He described it as “intended to underscore the Command’s readiness and serve a stern warning to any individuals or groups considering actions that may jeopardize the electoral process.”

The police warned that only officially recognised security agencies would be allowed at polling units on election day.
“No quasi-security organizations will be allowed to participate,” the statement read, adding that all electoral laws would be strictly enforced, including the prohibition of campaigning or displaying political insignia at polling units. It further stated,

“The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages near polling units will be strictly prohibited to maintain decorum and public order,” while also banning uniformed personnel from escorting aspirants to polling stations.
Vote-buying and intimidation were also flagged as offences. “The distribution of financial inducements or any coercive tactics to influence voters is strictly forbidden,” Osifeso said, warning that anyone caught with weapons or instruments intended for violence “will face immediate legal sanctions in accordance with the law.”

To maintain safety, the Command announced a restriction on movement from midnight until 5:00 p.m. on election day across Ibadan North, Ibadan North East, Ibadan South West, and adjoining boundaries. Residents were advised to be aware of observation points and road closures, including Agbarigbo–Jembewon Road, Adamasingba–Danax Intersection, Bere–Oje Road, Idi-Ape Junction, Ojoo Road Stretch, Ajibode Junction, Ijokodo–Apete Road by the Customs Barracks, and Eleyele–Sango Road.Osifeso assured that security would be visible and proactive throughout the exercise.

“Our measures will include high-octane convoy patrols, intelligence-driven raids, stop-and-search operations, and continuous surveillance across the metropolis,” he said.

The Command urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to play their part in ensuring peace. “We encourage community members to discourage youths from being manipulated into engaging in violence or disruption. Please be aware that failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in legal consequences,” the statement warned.Reiterating its commitment to protecting democracy, the Command concluded,