Osun State police command has arrested an officer for discharging tear gas at a polling unit in Ife during the 2026 governorship election. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 16, 2026, causing disruption and panic among voters.
Police spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the arrest in a statement, saying the officer's action was unprofessional and contrary to standard operating procedures. She assured the public that the officer would face disciplinary action after an investigation.
Eyewitnesses reported that the tear gas was fired to disperse a crowd, but it affected voters who were queuing to cast their ballots. The election in the area was temporarily suspended, but later resumed after the situation was brought under control.
The command urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a peaceful electoral process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to comment on the incident.
