An officer was detained after an accidental tear gas discharge at a Registration Area Centre caused panic in Modakeke during Saturday’s election

The Osun State Police Command has arrested an officer deployed to the Registration Area Centre in Modakeke Ward 10, Ife East Local Government Area, after an accidental tear gas discharge caused panic during Saturday’s governorship election.

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The Osun police tear gas incident followed the release of video clips on social media showing a chaotic scene at the location, with residents heard expressing anger at police officers over the reported discharge.

The command, however, rejected claims that its personnel deliberately fired tear gas at voters or attempted to disrupt voting.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the police clarified that the incident occurred at a Registration Area Centre, commonly known as a RAC, rather than at a polling unit.

“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.

According to the command, the officer’s action amounted to personal negligence and fell below the professional standards expected of members of the Nigeria Police Force.

“This conduct is highly condemnable and falls far below the standard expected of an officer of the Nigeria Police Force,” the command stated.

The officer was immediately taken into custody, while an investigation was launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the discharge and determine whether any other motive was involved.

The police said the incident should not be interpreted as part of an attempt to intimidate voters or interfere with the electoral process.

The command also stressed that security personnel deployed directly to polling units are not permitted to carry firearms or tactical equipment within the designated radius of voting points under the electoral security arrangements.

The clarification came amid heightened sensitivity over the conduct of security personnel during the Osun election, with authorities facing pressure to ensure that voters can participate without intimidation.

The command apologised to residents, election observers and others affected by the incident, while promising that the officer would face appropriate disciplinary measures if found culpable.

“The Nigeria Police Force Osun State Command remains resolute in its duty to protect the integrity of the electoral process and to guarantee the safety and security of all participants,” the statement added.

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The investigation is expected to establish the full circumstances of the incident as voting and subsequent collation continue across Osun State.