The Nigeria Police Force has deployed a new Commissioner of Police to Osun State as part of heightened security preparations for the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
According to sources, Commissioner of Police Samuel Erale has been appointed to oversee election security in the state, replacing CP Ibrahim Gotan, who was recently redeployed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s successor, IGP Tunji Disu.
CP Erale, who was promoted to the rank of Commissioner of Police on July 21, 2026, is expected to coordinate security operations before, during and after the governorship poll.
The deployment follows the transfer of former Osun Police Commissioner Ibrahim Gotan to the Force Headquarters in Abuja on special duty. His redeployment was conveyed through an official police wireless message marked “Most Immediate,” directing all relevant police formations to implement the posting without delay.
The signal stated that Gotan had been assigned to the Office of the Commissioner of Police, Communications Operations, Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he will serve on special duty.
With political activities intensifying ahead of the election, the police say the leadership change is part of efforts to strengthen security, maintain public order and ensure a peaceful, credible electoral process across Osun State.
The Nigeria Police Force is expected to work closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other security agencies to provide adequate protection for voters, electoral officials and election materials throughout the exercise.
