The Osun State Police Command has arrested a police officer over the accidental discharge of tear gas at a Registration Area Centre in Modakeke, Ife East Local Government Area, during Saturday’s governorship election.
The incident caused panic at the centre after videos showing the chaotic scene surfaced on social media, with some residents heard expressing anger and accusing police personnel of firing tear gas at people without provocation.
However, the command dismissed claims that its operatives deliberately deployed tear gas to intimidate voters or disrupt the electoral process.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the command explained that the incident occurred at the Registration Area Centre in Modakeke Ward 10 and not at a polling unit.
According to the police, the discharge resulted from the negligence of an officer who was attempting to ease himself.
The command described the incident as unacceptable and said the officer had been taken into custody while disciplinary proceedings had commenced.
“The conduct is highly condemnable and falls far below the standard expected of an officer of the Nigeria Police Force,” the command stated.
It added that an investigation had been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether there were any other motives behind the action.
The police further dismissed reports circulating online that the tear gas was deliberately fired to scare voters away from the polling area.
The command also reminded the public that security personnel deployed to polling units are prohibited from carrying arms or tactical equipment within the designated vicinity of voting points.
Apologising to residents and election observers affected by the incident, the police assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout the voting and collation processes.
The command said the officer would face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with police regulations, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the election and ensuring the safety of all participants.