OsunDecides2026: Police Arrest Officer Over Accidental Tear Gas Discharge in Modakeke
The Osun State Police Command has arrested a police officer deployed to the Registration Area Centre in Modakeke Ward 10, Ife East Local Government Area, following the accidental discharge of tear gas that caused panic during Saturday’s governorship election.
The incident came to public attention after videos circulating on social media showed a tense scene in Modakeke, with residents expressing anger and confronting police officers over the discharge.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the command clarified that the incident did not occur at a polling unit and was not an attempt to disrupt voting.
According to the police, the tear gas was discharged at the Registration Area Centre and resulted from the negligence of an officer who was attempting to ease himself.
“The Command wishes to clarify that the incident did not take place at any polling unit. It occurred at the Registration Area Centre (RAC) and was the result of negligence on the part of an officer who was attempting to ease himself,” the statement said.
The command condemned the incident, describing the officer’s conduct as unacceptable and below the standard expected of personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.
It said the officer had been immediately taken into custody, while disciplinary proceedings and a thorough investigation had commenced to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether there were any other motives behind the action.
The police also dismissed reports circulating on social media that the tear gas was deliberately discharged to scare voters away from the electoral process.
The command further reminded the public that security personnel deployed to polling units are prohibited from carrying arms or tactical equipment within the designated radius of voting points, in line with electoral security guidelines.
Apologising to residents, voters and election observers affected by the incident, the command assured the public that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken against the officer in accordance with police regulations.
The Osun State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout the voting and collation processes and protecting the integrity of the electoral exercise.