STATEMENT ON THE CONDUCT OF SECURITY OFFICIALS AT THE CLOSE OF POLLS:
OSUN 2026: SECURITY CONDUCT OFFERS A BLUEPRINT FOR 2027 — HOWEVER, BVAS AUDITS AND ELECTORAL REFORMS CANNOT WAIT
CLEEN Foundation deployed trained election observers to monitor the conduct of security officials at the close of polls during the 2026 Osun State election. Conduct at the close of polls including whether officers remained at post, whether force was used, and how the ballot box was secured for transmission is a critical determinant of the credibility of the results that follow. It is against this backdrop that CLEEN Foundation issues this statement. As at the end of the Election Day Poll, CLEEN Foundation observers had submitted structured report(s) from polling units across 30 local government area(s) Aiyedaade, Aiyedire, Atakunmosa East, Atakunmosa West, Boluwaduro, Boripe, Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, Ejigbo, Ife Central, Ife East, Ife North, Ife South, Ifedayo, Ifelodun, Ila, Ilesa East, Ilesa West, Irepodun, Irewole, Isokan, Iwo, Obokun, Odo Otin, Ola Oluwa, Olorunda, Oriade, Orolu, Osogbo. This statement organises CLEEN Foundation’s findings under sustained deployment and adequacy; professional conduct and order; use of force and threat incidents; ballot box security and accountability; BVAS performance and accreditation irregularities; and a supplementary heatmap of election-day, media-reported violence followed by a polling-unit-level summary and CLEEN Foundation’s overall assessment.
Background & Methodology
CLEEN Foundation has monitored the conduct of security agencies during elections and other public order events across Nigeria for over two decades. Its closing-of-poll observation protocol extends the opening-of-poll methodology to focus specifically on sustained presence, discipline under pressure as voting concludes, and the security of the ballot box in the sensitive window between the close of voting and the transmission of results—a period that observation research consistently identifies as carrying elevated risk of disputes, intimidation, or interference. For the Guber election, CLEEN Foundation trained and deployed a network of accredited observers who submitted structured, real-time reports via KoboToolbox at the close of polls. Each report captures officer adequacy and continuity of presence, orderliness and impartiality, whether force was used and if so whether it was proportionate, and whether the ballot box was secured for safe transportation alongside the names of officers whom observers wish to recommend for commendation or reprimand. This statement is based on the closing-of-poll report(s) received to date.
As with the opening-of-poll statement, these findings reflect the specific polling units where CLEEN Foundation observers were present and reporting at the time of analysis, not a statistically randomised sample of all polling units in Osun State, and will be updated as further reports are received.
Security presence was sustained through the close of polls in the large majority of monitored locations. 100% of reports rated the number of officers present as adequate or better throughout the day. However, officers were reported to have left the polling station for some period during the day in 6% of reports and the polling station was reported left entirely unattended by security in 2% of cases.
Continuity of presence through to the close of polls matters as much as, if not more than, presence at the opening: it is in the final hours of voting and the immediate post-close period when queues are cleared, results are collated at the unit level, and the ballot box is prepared for movement that opportunistic interference is most likely. CLEEN Foundation treats any report of officers leaving post or a station being left unattended as warranting individual follow-up, regardless of how small a share of the overall total it represents.
Observers’ assessments of professionalism at the close of polls remained strongly positive. Officers were rated approachable or very approachable in 100% of reports, and polling centres were described as orderly or very orderly in 100% of reports.
Officers were rated impartial or very impartial in 97% of reports, and were reported to have followed the Presiding Officer’s instructions in 100% of reports. Overall conduct was rated good or very good in 89% of monitored locations. Deference to the Presiding Officer’s authority is a particularly important indicator at the close of polls, since it is the Presiding Officer, not the security detail, who holds legal responsibility for the conduct of the count and the completion of result sheets; a security presence that respects that chain of authority helps reduce the risk of disputes over the integrity of the process at the unit level.
III. Use of Force & Threat Incidents
Incidents of threat to security at the polling centre were reported in 12% of locations. CLEEN Foundation flags these incidents for individual follow-up.
Security officials were reported to have used force in 2% of locations. CLEEN Foundation notes any use of force at a polling unit as a matter requiring individual review of proportionality and necessity, regardless of the overall share it represents.
Officers were reported visibly armed with firearms in 37% of locations, broadly consistent with standard deployment protocol and noted here for completeness rather than as an indicator of concern on its own.
Security officials were reported to have provided security for the transportation of the ballot box after voting concluded in 86% of monitored locations. Securing the chain of custody of the ballot box between the polling unit and the collation centre is one of the highest-risk junctures of Election Day, and this figure is a material indicator of process integrity at the units covered. At the remaining 14% of locations, observers either did not confirm ballot box security or were uncertain whether it was provided, underscoring that the handover from polling unit to collation centre is the point in the process observers were least able to verify directly, compared with the deployment and conduct indicators reported at the polling unit itself.
CLEEN Foundation observers flagged reports of BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) malfunction or related accreditation irregularities at the close of polls, compiled directly by observers outside the structured Kobo reporting forms. These are CLEEN Foundation-verified reports, not media claims, and are recorded here because BVAS performance is central to the credibility of the accreditation process that underlies the results now being collated. Where BVAS facial or fingerprint verification failed, INEC officials at several units were reported to have deployed their technical team to resolve the fault, in some cases provoking brief unrest among waiting voters while the issue was being worked on. It is also worth noting that at several of the polling units observed with large numbers of accredited voters, INEC had provided only a single BVAS unit, which slowed accreditation independently of any device fault. CLEEN Foundation recommends that INEC publicly clarify the technical support and fallback protocol used at each affected unit, confirm that accreditation at those units otherwise met legal requirements, and ensure that future elections provide multiple BVAS units at polling units with large registered voter populations.
In addition to the Foundations accredited observer network, CLEEN Foundation reviewed election-day coverage from several Nigerian news outlets to build a supplementary picture of where reports of election-related violence emerged on Election Day itself. This is a distinct and lower-confidence data layer from CLEEN Foundation’s own Violence Observer Log: it combines police-confirmed incidents, an outlet’s own on-the-ground reporting, and in several cases allegations made by political parties that have not been independently confirmed by police or INEC. These figures are presented as media-reported and unconfirmed, not as CLEEN Foundation-verified findings, and are set alongside CLEEN Foundation’s own data below so the two layers can be read together without being conflated. CLEEN Foundation’s own Violence Incident Log recorded 7 verified incident report(s) in this reporting window. Two reports came from Ola Oluwa, and one each from Ifelodun, Ede South, Ilesa East, Iwo, Irewole and Modakeke. All were rated low-severity verbal or physical intimidation without a weapon, or vote-buying with no deaths or injuries recorded, and voting was reported disrupted at only two of these locations, Ede South and Modakeke.
Separately, election-day media and party-sourced reports of violence were identified in 6 location(s) Ilesa East, Ejigbo, Boripe, Odo-Otin, Irewole, and Atakumosa spanning alleged shootings, gunfire near a traditional ruler’s palace, disrupted voting, and claims of vandalised residences. With the exception of the palace incident at Iree (Boripe), which was independently confirmed by the monarch involved, and thug-related disruption at Aregbesola’s polling unit in Ilesa East reported directly by journalists on the ground, these reports originate from party allegations that police and INEC have not yet confirmed.
10 local government area(s) had at least one report of either kind of election-related violence in this reporting window: Atakumosa, Boripe, Ede South, Ejigbo, Ifelodun, Ilesa East, Irewole, Iwo, Odo-Otin, Modakeke, Ola Oluwa. Ilesa East, Modakeke and Irewole each appear in both CLEEN Foundation’s own verified log and the media-reported layer, which CLEEN Foundation considers a modest corroboration signal for those three locations specifically, though the nature of the incidents reported at each differs between sources.
VII. Polling Unit-Level Summary
Across several polling-unit closing reports received, overall conduct ratings broke down as follows: Very Good: 63%; Good: 26% ; Fair: 8%; Poor: 2%; Condemnable: 2%. CLEEN Foundation draws particular attention to 12 polling unit(s) that either scored below the otherwise strongly positive norm, reported use of force, or reported a threat incident, and which merit closer follow-up: Atakumosa West, 10 Osunjela/ unit 7 (rating “Fair”); Ede North, Sabo Agbongbe 2, Alabi Junction/ 007 (rating “Fair”); Osogbo, 4 FOMWAN junction Ogo-Oluwa area, PU 027. (rating “Poor”, threat incident reported); Ifelodun,Ikirun, 06 ADEYEMI ST/NUD PRY.SCH I/II (rating “condemnable”); Atakumosa West, 7 Araromi kajola unit 6, (rating “Good”, threat incident reported); Boluwaduro, Oke Otan, Ejemu Ororo (rating “Very Good”, threat incident reported); Irewole, 05 Rural Health Care Centre (rating “Fair”, threat incident reported); Irewole, 05 Rural Health Care Centre Ikire (rating “Fair”, threat incident reported); Atakunmosa East, 002 Town Hall Iperindo (rating “Good”, force used); Irewole, 05 Rural Health Care Centre / 06 (rating “Fair”, threat incident reported); Ifelodun, 06 Adeyemi st NUD PRY SCHOOL 11 (rating “Very Good”, threat incident reported); Ifelodun, 06 Adeyemi st /Nud nur/pry schoolII (rating “Very Good”, threat incident reported).
VIII. Recommendations
Arising from the findings above, CLEEN Foundation makes the following recommendations to three sets of actors whose actions will shape the credibility of the remainder of this electoral process:
To the Federal and State Governments
To Law Enforcement Agencies, Especially the Nigeria Police Force
To the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
To Members of the Public
CLEEN Foundation commends the security agencies for the professionalism observed throughout the polls and urge continued vigilance, restraint, and strict chain-of-custody discipline for all evidence. Ultimately, the Osun State Governorship Election underscored the critical distinction between peaceful voting processes and genuine electoral credibility. Addressing this divide requires comprehensive structural reforms, specifically bolstering security agencies to tackle vote-trading and financial inducements, enforcing campaign finance transparency, and strengthening independent oversight by civil society and media entities.
]]>Osogbo, Nigeria — 2026-08-15 12:00 PM
“Security Officers Pass Early Test in Osun, but BVAS Malfunctions and Isolated Violence Threaten Smooth Polls at the 2026 Osun State Gubernatorial Election“
CLEEN Foundation deployed trained election observers to monitor security officials’ conduct at the opening of polls during the 2026 Osun State election. Security sector conduct at polling units is a core indicator of electoral credibility: how officers deploy, identify themselves, and interact with voters and party agents in the opening hours of voting shapes public confidence for the remainder of the process. It is against this backdrop that CLEEN Foundation issues this preliminary statement.
As of 2026-08-15 12:00 PM, observers had submitted reports from polling units across 30 local government area(s) (Atakumosa, Atakumosa West, Atakunmosa East, Ayedaade, Ayedire, Boluwaduro, Boripe, Boripe LGA, Ede South, Egbedore, Egbedore local government, Egbedore local government Area, Ife Central, Ife East, Irewole, Ife Central, Ife East, Ife-North, Ila, Ila local government, Ilasa east, Ilesa East, Ilesa West, Ilesha east, Irepodun, Irewole, Isokan, Iwo, Odo-Otin, Ola-Oluwa, Oriade Lg, Orolu, Osogbo) and 37 ward(s). This statement organises CLEEN Foundation’s preliminary findings under four analytical themes, which are deployment and readiness; professional conduct and public trust; threat and risk indicators; and geographic spread of coverage, followed by representative field notes, a polling-unit-level summary, and CLEEN Foundation’s overall assessment.
Background & Methodology
CLEEN Foundation has monitored the conduct of security agencies during elections and other public order events across Nigeria for over two decades, working to strengthen accountable, rights-respecting policing as a foundation for credible elections. Its election security observation methodology rests on the premise that the presence, professionalism, and impartiality of security officials at polling units materially affect both voter turnout and the perceived legitimacy of results, making systematic, real-time monitoring of their conduct a distinct and necessary complement to conventional election observation, which typically focuses on the voting and counting process itself.
For the 2026 Osun State election, CLEEN Foundation trained and deployed a network of accredited observers who submitted structured, real-time reports via KoboToolbox at the moment polls opened. Each report captures a standard set of indicators: the timing and strength of the security deployment, officer identification, communication capacity, approachability, impartiality, firearms visibility, and any armed groups observed nearby, alongside free-text field notes. This structured format allows findings to be aggregated and compared across polling units in near real time.
As with any observer-based monitoring exercise, these findings reflect the specific polling units where CLEEN Foundation observers were deployed and present at the time of reporting, rather than a statistically randomised sample of all polling units in Osun State. The findings below should therefore be read as an indicative, evidence-based snapshot of security conduct at the opening of polls in the areas covered, which CLEEN Foundation will continue to expand and update as more reports are received throughout election day.
Security deployment at the opening of polls was, overall, timely and adequately staffed. 86% of monitored polling units reported three or more security officials posted to the centre, and 39% of officers had arrived before 7:00 a.m., ahead of the commencement of accreditation and voting.
On identification, 98% of reports confirmed that officers wore easily identifiable nametags and numbers, in line with standard protocol. Officers with visible communication equipment for requesting backup, if needed, were reported in 65% of locations.
Early, adequately staffed deployment matters because the pre-accreditation window is typically when queues form, and tensions around access and orderliness first emerge; a visible, identifiable security presence at this stage tends to set the tone for voter conduct through the rest of the day. The near-universal presence of nametags and service numbers is a meaningful accountability signal in its own right; it means that, should any conduct issue arise later in the day, the specific officer involved can, in principle, be identified, which is a precondition for redress.
For places where observers indicated a lack of visible communication equipment, this should be considered a minor logistical gap rather than a security failure, but it is precisely the kind of gap that can matter if backup is urgently needed later in the day.
Observer assessments of officer professionalism were strongly positive. Officers were rated as approachable or very approachable in 100% of reports, and impartial or very impartial in 80% of reports.
A general sense of safety and security around the polling centre was reported in 100% of locations taken together; observers rated the overall conduct of security officials as good or very good in 94% of monitored locations, describing the atmosphere as generally calm, peaceful, and orderly at the opening of polls.
Approachability and impartiality are the two indicators most directly linked to voters’ willingness to report problems as they arise: voters and party agents are less likely to flag concerns to an officer perceived as unapproachable or partisan in real time, which can allow small issues to go unaddressed until they escalate. The consistency between the approachability, impartiality, and safety-perception figures reported here suggests these are not isolated impressions from a handful of unusually positive locations, but a broadly shared observer experience across the areas covered. CLEEN Foundation will track whether this consistency holds as monitoring extends to the closing of polls, when officer fatigue and the pressure of vote-counting can test professionalism more severely than the opening hours typically do.
III. Threat & Risk Indicators
Officers outside of the immediate perimeter of the polling units were observed visibly armed with firearms. Firearm visibility outside of the polling units is a standard security protocol consideration and is noted here for completeness rather than as an indicator of concern on its own.
No armed groups or political thugs were observed close to any monitored polling unit in this reporting window, a positive early indicator for the security environment at the opening of polls.
CLEEN Foundation reads threat and risk indicators together with, not apart from, the conduct findings above: a professional, approachable security presence is itself a mitigating factor against low-level friction escalating into violence or intimidation. The absence of armed non-state actors at the opening of polls is encouraging, but experience from prior election cycles in Nigeria suggests that risk to voters and observers alike tends to rise later in the day, particularly around collation and the announcement of results at the unit level. CLEEN Foundation’s observer network will continue to track these indicators through the closing of polls specifically to capture any such shift.
Since this reporting window began, CLEEN Foundation’s separate Election-Day Violence Observer Log has recorded 3 incident report(s), a distinct data stream from the opening-of-poll conducts observations discussed above and one that CLEEN Foundation treats with particular urgency. Reports were logged from the following location(s): Ola Oluwa (2); Ifelodun (1). In Word 10, Unit 3, Modakeke, Ife-East Local Government Area: Police sho1 teargas canister into standing electorates at the Ward. However, at the time of this report, we can confirm that the officer involved has been apprehended and is undergoing interrogation by the police leadership.
By the reported nature of the incident, the log shows: Verbal/physical intimidation (no weapon seen) (2); Vote Buying (1). CLEEN Foundation notes that these are observer-submitted field reports pending further verification, and are being shared here in the interest of timely public information rather than as a final, corroborated account of events.
CLEEN Foundation calls on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to urgently investigate the incident(s) reported above, to take immediate steps to protect voters, party agents, and observers at the affected location(s), and to ensure that the electoral process is able to continue without further disruption. CLEEN Foundation will continue to monitor these locations closely and will update this statement as more information becomes available.
The functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was a major focal point and a source of considerable delay. Technical malfunctions were reported in various polling units, ranging from network connectivity failures and difficulties with facial recognition to errors in fingerprint authentication. These issues were observed in locations such as: irepodun, Ward: 6, Polling Unit: 008, Ajele’s Compound where the accreditation process was severely hampered; also LGA like Ilesa East, Ilerin Ward and PU: 7; Irepodun, Ward 6, PU:017; Ifelodun, Ward 06, PU:005 and 006; Irewole, Ward 9, PU 007 (country Lodge). While INEC’s technical teams were seen responding to some of these challenges, the response time and effectiveness were inconsistent, leading to frustration among voters.
Despite these setbacks, voter turnout was mixed. While logistical/operational delays tested people’s patience, many polling units still saw impressive numbers driven partly by voter determination and partly by political inducement.
Observations across the visited polling units point to a broadly positive assessment of electoral conduct and security on the day particularly from the position of law enforcement except for the isolated case highlighted earlier. On overall conduct, 57% of polling units were rated “very good” and a further 37% “good,” meaning 94% of units observed met or exceeded acceptable standards, with only 6% rated merely “fair” and no unit rated poorly. This suggests that election-day procedures like accreditation, voting, and results management were largely conducted in line with expected protocols, with deviations, where they occurred, being minor rather than systemic except for the challenges with the BVAS.
Perceptions of safety around polling centers followed a similarly reassuring pattern. 57% of respondents described the environment as “very safe and secure” and 41% as “safe and secure,” together accounting for 98% of responses, while only 2% felt merely “somewhat safe and secure.” No respondent reported an unsafe environment. This indicates that security deployment and crowd management at polling centers were largely effective in reassuring voters and observers, reinforcing the sense of an orderly voting process.
Taken together, the two indicators reinforce each other: units where conduct was rated highly also tended to be those perceived as most secure, suggesting a link between visible security presence, procedural discipline, and public confidence in the process.
VII. CLEEN Foundation’s Assessment
This statement reflects preliminary observations gathered at the opening of polls and does not represent a comprehensive assessment of the full electoral process. Monitoring continues throughout the day, and CLEEN Foundation will issue further updates, including on the closing of polls and any reported incidents, as additional data becomes available.
CLEEN Foundation commends the security agencies for the professionalism observed at this stage and urges continued neutrality, restraint, and adherence to the rule of law throughout the remainder of the electoral process. As the election proceeds to collation and result announcement, CLEEN Foundation calls for heightened vigilance, transparency, and restraint from all actors.
Signed:
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
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Abuja
CLEEN Foundation Activates Election Security Support Centre to Monitor Law Enforcement Conduct in Osun Governorship Election
CLEEN Foundation has officially activated its Election Security Support Centre ahead of the Osun State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday, 15 August 2026, as part of its ongoing commitment to promoting peaceful, credible and rights-respecting elections in Nigeria. The Support Centre will provide a central coordination and monitoring platform for CLEEN Foundation’s election observers deployed across Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Osun State. The Centre will receive, verify and analyse field reports on the conduct of law enforcement personnel before, during and immediately after the election, with particular attention to professionalism, impartiality, respect for citizens’ rights, compliance with electoral procedures and the maintenance of public order.
CLEEN Foundation observers have been deployed across LGAs in the state to document the conduct and performance of law enforcement agencies during the electoral process. The field teams will complement the work of the Election Security Support Centre by providing real-time observations and verified reports from polling locations and other relevant areas. The Foundation calls on all law enforcement personnel deployed for the election to uphold the principles of professionalism, neutrality, restraint, accountability and respect for fundamental human rights. Security agencies have a critical responsibility to protect voters, electoral officials, candidates, observers and other stakeholders while ensuring that the exercise of their powers does not undermine citizens’ constitutional and electoral rights.
Citizens Can Support Election Security Monitoring:
CLEEN Foundation also invites citizens across Osun State to contribute responsibly to election security monitoring. Members of the public who witness incidents involving the conduct of law enforcement officers or other significant election-security developments are encouraged to share videos, photographs and credible information with the Foundation. Election-day materials can be submitted through the CLEEN Foundation’s official social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkdlN @cleenfoundation) or through the Foundation’s designated Election Security Support Centre hotline: +2348102493148, +234 706 742 3635, +234 805 782 7107
Citizens are encouraged to provide the location, approximate time and brief context of any incident where possible. The Foundation will treat submissions responsibly and subject them to appropriate verification before they are incorporated into its monitoring and analysis.
The Foundation particularly urges citizens not to place themselves at risk, confront security personnel or interfere with electoral processes while documenting incidents. Personal safety should remain the first priority. CLEEN Foundation will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to promote a peaceful electoral environment and will provide evidence-based updates on law enforcement conduct throughout the election period.
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
Introduction
We, the representatives of host communities, youth organisations, regulators, enforcement agencies, women’s groups, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, community-based organisations, environmental advocates, and other stakeholders, having participated in the Two Days Multi-Stakeholders Policy Plan on Strengthening Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) framework for a future-ready and just energy transition, hereby issue this communiqué.
Following intensive deliberations on the findings of the study Strengthening Nigeria’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Framework for a Future-Ready and Just Energy Transition, we acknowledge that Environmental and Social Impact Assessment is more than a regulatory requirement; it is a critical governance tool for protecting the environment, safeguarding community livelihoods, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring that the benefits of Nigeria’s energy transition are shared equitably. The study demonstrates that while Nigeria has an operational ESIA framework, significant reforms are required to improve legal provisions, institutional effectiveness, climate integration, transparency, community participation, and preparedness for emerging energy technologies.
Recognising the environmental lessons from the Niger Delta and the opportunities presented by the country’s evolving energy transition agenda, we collectively call on governments, regulators, legislators, industry, development partners, and civil society to prioritise comprehensive reforms that place communities at the centre of environmental governance.
Rationale
Communities are the first to experience the environmental, social and economic consequences of development projects. Effective ESIA implementation is therefore essential to prevent environmental degradation, protect public health, preserve biodiversity, reduce conflicts, strengthen investor confidence, and ensure that future energy investments contribute to sustainable and inclusive development. Strengthening Nigeria’s ESIA framework is not only an environmental imperative but also a strategic investment in national development, climate resilience, social justice and long-term prosperity.
Twelve-Point Communiqué
We call on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to urgently review and modernise the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act of 1992 to reflect current environmental realities and international best practices. The existing legislation has served Nigeria for over three decades but no longer adequately addresses contemporary issues such as climate change, cumulative impact assessment, biodiversity conservation, and emerging energy technologies. As Nigeria transitions towards a cleaner and more diversified energy future, the legal framework must evolve to provide clear guidance for new forms of development. A revised ESIA Act should strengthen environmental governance, improve regulatory certainty, and promote sustainable investment. We believe that legislative reform is fundamental to achieving a future-ready and resilient environmental governance system.
Nigeria’s environmental governance system must be prepared for the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging energy technologies such as green hydrogen and nuclear energy. Dedicated ESIA guidance should be developed for renewable energy infrastructure, battery energy storage systems, green hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, critical minerals and future nuclear energy projects. Regulators should receive specialised training to assess and manage the unique environmental and social risks associated with these technologies. Proactive planning will enhance investor confidence while ensuring that technological innovation does not compromise environmental protection. We believe that preparing today will enable Nigeria to successfully manage tomorrow’s energy transition.
Communities hosting development projects should receive fair and transparent benefits from investments taking place within their localities. Every major project should establish accessible grievance redress mechanisms that allow concerns to be resolved quickly, fairly and without intimidation. Community Development Agreements should be strengthened to ensure that local people benefit through employment, infrastructure development, education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities. Fair benefit-sharing arrangements contribute to social stability and reduce conflicts between project developers and host communities. We therefore advocate for development that delivers shared prosperity while respecting community rights and environmental integrity.
Communities can only participate effectively in environmental governance when they possess adequate knowledge and understanding of the ESIA process. Government institutions, civil society organisations and development partners should invest in continuous environmental education, awareness campaigns and capacity-building programmes at the grassroots level. These initiatives should empower communities to understand their rights and responsibilities while promoting informed participation in environmental decision-making. Building local capacity will strengthen environmental stewardship and improve long-term compliance with environmental standards. We reaffirm our commitment to becoming active partners in safeguarding Nigeria’s environment through knowledge, collaboration and responsible citizenship
Achieving meaningful ESIA reform requires collective action from government, communities, industry, academia, civil society organisations and development partners. No single institution can successfully address the complex environmental challenges associated with sustainable development and the energy transition. We encourage the establishment of regular multi-stakeholder dialogue platforms to promote policy learning, knowledge exchange and collaborative environmental governance. Partnerships should also support research, innovation, institutional capacity development and the implementation of evidence-based reforms. Together, we can build a transparent, accountable and future-ready ESIA system that protects the environment while supporting inclusive economic development and a just energy transition.
Communities must no longer be treated as passive recipients of development decisions but recognised as equal partners throughout the ESIA process. Public participation should begin during project planning and continue throughout implementation, monitoring and project closure. Community concerns, traditional knowledge and local experiences should meaningfully influence environmental decisions rather than merely satisfy procedural consultation requirements. Inclusive participation strengthens project legitimacy, reduces conflicts and promotes shared ownership of development outcomes. We therefore advocate for a people-centred ESIA system that genuinely reflects the voices and aspirations of affected communities.
Effective environmental governance depends on strong, independent and adequately resourced institutions. Regulatory agencies responsible for ESIA administration should receive sufficient financial resources, modern equipment and continuous technical capacity development to fulfil their mandates effectively. Greater collaboration among federal, state and sectoral regulators is required to eliminate duplication of responsibilities and improve environmental oversight. We also call for stronger compliance monitoring, enforcement mechanisms and post-project follow-up to ensure that approved mitigation measures are fully implemented. Strengthening institutions will enhance public confidence and improve environmental protection across Nigeria.
Environmental information is a public good and should be accessible to all citizens in a timely and understandable manner. ESIA reports, environmental monitoring data, compliance records and regulatory decisions should be published through easily accessible digital platforms. Transparency promotes accountability, strengthens public trust and enables communities to actively participate in protecting their environment. Communities should not struggle to obtain information that directly affects their health, livelihoods and natural resources. We therefore urge government institutions to adopt open and transparent environmental governance practices consistent with international standards.
Environmental governance should ensure that every member of society has an opportunity to contribute to decisions affecting their future. Women, young people, persons with disabilities, indigenous populations and other vulnerable groups should participate fully throughout the ESIA process. Their perspectives often provide valuable insights into environmental risks, community priorities and sustainable resource management. An inclusive ESIA system promotes social equity, reduces marginalisation and supports the principles of a just energy transition. We therefore call for deliberate policies that guarantee equitable representation and meaningful engagement for all stakeholders.
Climate change should become a central component of all Environmental and Social Impact Assessments undertaken in Nigeria. Every major development project should assess greenhouse gas emissions, climate risks, adaptation requirements and ecosystem resilience before approval is granted. Environmental assessments must also consider cumulative impacts and long-term environmental sustainability rather than focusing solely on immediate project effects. Strengthening climate integration will ensure that infrastructure investments remain resilient under changing climatic conditions. We believe this reform is essential for supporting Nigeria’s national climate commitments and sustainable development aspirations.
Approval of an ESIA should mark the beginning rather than the end of environmental oversight. Continuous environmental monitoring should be mandatory throughout the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of every project. Regulatory agencies should undertake regular inspections, while independent environmental audits and community-based monitoring should complement official oversight. Developers that fail to comply with approved environmental management plans should be held accountable through appropriate sanctions and corrective actions. Strong compliance systems will improve environmental performance and reduce the likelihood of long-term environmental degradation.
The environmental challenges experienced in the Niger Delta provide important lessons for future development across Nigeria. Weak environmental oversight, poor enforcement and limited community participation have contributed to decades of pollution, ecosystem degradation and social conflict. These mistakes should not be repeated as Nigeria expands investments in renewable energy, critical minerals and other emerging energy sectors. Future projects must prioritise pollution prevention, environmental stewardship and proactive risk management from the earliest stages of development. We urge policymakers to use the lessons of the Niger Delta to strengthen future environmental governance and protect future generations.
Our Collective Call
We reaffirm our commitment to promoting environmental justice, responsible resource development and sustainable livelihoods. We urge all levels of government, regulatory agencies, legislators, private sector organisations and development partners to adopt the recommendations contained in this study and implement the proposed ESIA reforms without delay.
As communities, we pledge to work constructively with government, industry and other stakeholders to promote transparency, environmental stewardship, peaceful dialogue and shared responsibility in protecting Nigeria’s environment for present and future generations.
Closing Statement
A robust Environmental and Social Impact Assessment system is fundamental to protecting our environment, safeguarding our communities, attracting responsible investment and ensuring that Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon future is inclusive, equitable and sustainable. The future of our environment depends on decisions we make today.
Participants Organizations
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Abuja, | 7 September 2026
CLEEN Foundation Salutes the Nigeria Police Force on the International Day of Police Cooperation
On the occasion of the International Day of Police Cooperation, CLEEN Foundation expresses its solidarity with the Nigeria Police Force and acknowledges the dedication, sacrifices and professional responsibilities of police officers who work every day to protect lives, maintain public order and uphold the rule of law. The occasion provides an important opportunity to recognise that effective policing is ultimately about people, trust and partnership. In Nigeria, police officers operate in an increasingly complex security environment, often under difficult conditions and at considerable personal risk. From responding to violent crime, terrorism, kidnapping and communal conflicts to maintaining public safety and securing democratic processes, the demands placed on the Force are substantial. We particularly recognise officers who have lost their lives or suffered injury in the line of duty, and extend our solidarity to their families and colleagues.
At the same time, police cooperation must extend beyond cooperation among law enforcement agencies. The most effective security institutions are those that work with the communities they serve. Cooperation with citizens, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, the media, justice institutions and other security agencies is essential to building legitimate, accountable and trusted policing. For Nigeria, this means deepening community policing, strengthening intelligence-led and rights-based policing, improving police-community relations, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring that accountability and professionalism remain central to police reform. As Nigeria prepares for another important electoral cycle, the principle of police cooperation assumes even greater significance. The Nigeria Police Force will remain central to creating an environment in which citizens can exercise their democratic rights safely and freely. This requires impartiality, restraint, professionalism and respect for constitutional rights before, during and after elections. It also requires citizens and other stakeholders to recognise that democratic policing is a shared responsibility.
CLEEN Foundation reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement with the Nigeria Police Force in strengthening police accountability, human rights, community-oriented policing, gender-responsive policing, police professionalism and public confidence in law enforcement. Our engagement is rooted in the belief that supporting the police and holding the police accountable are not contradictory objectives; indeed, accountability is one of the foundations of institutional legitimacy and public trust. On this International Day of Police Cooperation, we salute the men and women of the Nigeria Police Force who serve under challenging circumstances. We call for renewed investment in their welfare, professional development, operational capacity and institutional resilience. A safer Nigeria requires a police institution that is professional, adequately supported, accountable to the law and trusted by the people.
CLEEN Foundation stands in solidarity with the Nigeria Police Force and all police officers working to keep our communities safe.
Signed
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
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29 June 2026
Press Release
CLEEN FOUNDATION CONDEMNS THE KILLING OF BENUE STATE MACBAN CHAIRMAN, CALLS FOR RESTRAINT AND INSTITUTIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY IN JUSTICE DELIVERY
CLEEN Foundation strongly condemns the brutal ambush and killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Okudu Community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. CLEEN Foundation views this targeted attack as a profound threat to local peace-building efforts, particularly as it occurred shortly after the victims participated in a crucial stakeholders’ peace dialogue convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ohimini LGA. When actors who actively engage in peace initiatives are targeted, it undermines the trust necessary for community dialogue, conflict resolution, and transitional justice across the region.
While we acknowledge the swift operational response of the Benue State Police Command under CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, which led to the arrest of ten (10) suspects on Saturday June 27, 2026, CLEEN Foundation stresses that justice must not stop at preliminary arrests. To prevent this tragedy from triggering wider reprisal actions and further destabilizing vulnerable communities in Otukpo, Ohimini, and environs, institutional transparency and proactive containment are urgently required.
Call to Action
CLEEN Foundation puts forward the following targeted recommendations:
Thorough and Transparent Prosecution: The Benue State Police Command & Judiciary must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation and ensure that it is meticulous, intelligence-led, and free from profiling. The case must progress swiftly to the prosecution of all culpable individuals to serve as a visible deterrent to perpetrators of communal violence.
Protection of Peace Advocates: Security institutions must reassess and enhance protection frameworks for community leaders, mediators, peace practitioners and advocates and participants who risk their safety to attend state-convened security dialogues.
To the National and State Leadership of MACBAN & Community Elders:
Exercise Utmost Restraint: We call on the leadership of MACBAN and regional community heads to actively de-escalate tension among their members and prevent any form of retaliatory or reprisal attacks. True justice must be sought strictly within the parameters of civil law.
To the Benue State Government & Local Government Chairmen (Otukpo and Ohimini):
Proactive Community Engagement: Local authorities must immediately deploy early-warning and early-response mechanisms. Joint peace committees involving herder representatives, agrarian community leaders, and local security actors should be reinforced to manage the immediate fallout and control harmful rumors.
Signed
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
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For Immediate release
Saturday, 20th June 2026
Ado Ekiti
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Ekiti State Governorship Election today 20th June 2026, has a total of 1,059,360 registered voters expected to participate across 2,445 polling units spread over 177 wards in the 16 LGAs of the state. Thirteen political parties fielded candidates, led by incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Oyebanji Ikusayedegbe Olajuyin of the Labour Party (LP), and Ambassador Oluwadare Patrick Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), all of whom were among the leading contenders on the ballot.
CLEEN Foundation, in fulfilment of its institutional mandate to enhance election security management and democratic governance in Nigeria, deployed trained 60 INEC accredited observers across all the sixteen (16) Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ekiti State, to monitor the 2026 gubernatorial elections in the state. Our field deployment sought to independently monitor and evaluate the conduct of security personnel deployed for the governorship election being held on Saturday, 20th June 2026.
CLEEN Foundation presents this preliminary synopsis. The findings and insights detailed below represent verified, real-time data transmitted through our over 60 stationary and roving observers making use of proprietary mobile tracking applications on the conduct of security officials during the election.
2.0 METHODOLOGY
The CLEEN Foundation adopted a triangulation approach in tracking, documenting, and reporting the conduct of security personnel during the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election, which relies on a multi-tiered data gathering framework. The approach balances qualitative observation with quantitative data tracking to provide a holistic, real-time assessment of election security. Observers were deployed across the 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ekiti state, complemented by roving observers and media tracking by the CLEEN Foundation Election Security Support Centre (ESSC). The Observers utilised a standardised checklist mapped directly to international best practices for democratic policing and national electoral security guidelines. The ESSC utilised a secure platform and received and analysed data from the field used to generate this preliminary report.
3.0 FIELD OBSERVATIONS & FINDINGS
3.1: Early Arrival and Presence of Law Enforcement personnel:
Field reports indicated a significant and highly visible security presence across most parts of the state, with security personnel arriving early to match official timelines, wearing visible, identifiable nametags and unarmed. Data received from the CLEEN Foundation Observers and analyzed by the Election Security Support Centre indicates that 90% of law enforcement personnel arrived early at the various polling units in the ongoing Ekiti state 2026 governorship election. In Oye LGA (Ward 10, PU 015), Ekiti North Senatorial Zone, mixed security forces arrived early alongside election officials to start the process on schedule. A similarly disciplined presence was observed in Ikole LGA (Ward: Ikole North 04, PU 001, in front of Anifowose’s House), where three police officers were on-site to secure the timely arrival of the electoral agency. In Moba LGA (Ward: Erinmope 2, Code 004, at Community Primary School Irare), a strong mixed team of three police officers and two NSCDC personnel established a reassuring security posture.
Area of Concern: Despite these positive turnouts, isolated gaps occurred. Observers in Ijero LGA (Ward D (04), PU 002) recorded an incident of “No security presence,” raising concerns about inconsistency and uneven distribution of personnel.
3.2 Adequacy of Security Officials Deployed
The majority of polling units observed, representing 82.9%, had three or more security officials posted, providing adequate coverage for the management of crowd control, voter assistance, and incident response. Six polling units, accounting for 14.6%, had two officers deployed, while only one polling unit, representing 2.4%, had no security presence at all. This latter case, identified in Ijero LGA (Ward: D (04), PU: 002), represents a significant gap that raises concerns about the consistency of security deployment across the state. The presence of multiple security personnel at most polling units enabled effective collaboration between security agencies, with observers documenting instances where Police officers, NSCDC personnel, and other security agencies worked side by side to maintain order and ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
3.3 Identification and Professional Appearance of Security Personnel
Majority of CLEEN Foundation observers 98% noted that polling units observed had two or more law enforcement personnel present at the polling unit and no polling unit was without a law enforcement personnel. Similarly all the law enforcement personnel were observed to be wearing easily identifiable name tags/number in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti state.Specifically in Ado LGA (Ward: Ado D Ijigbo, PU 008, St. Thomas Primary School Oke Oniyo), where voting commenced precisely at 8:30 a.m. under the watch of two police officers and an NSCDC official with their name tags displayed. Also, in Oye Ekiti LGA (Ward: Ayedesouth, PU 004, St. Luke Primary School Itaji Ekiti), a robust team of four police officers were later joined by two Man O’ War officials, ensuring a peaceful environment where voter orientation was smoothly conducted by 8:33 a.m.
3.4 Use of Face Masks by Security Personnel
Observers reported that the overwhelming majority of security officials, representing 95.1%, were not wearing face masks during the election. Only two officers, accounting for 4.9%, were observed wearing face masks. While no specific health advisory was in effect at the time of the election, this observation suggests a need for better compliance with health protocols during future elections, particularly if respiratory illness outbreaks are a concern. The low usage of face masks may also reflect a broader relaxation of health protocols across the country, but security agencies should maintain contingency plans for health safety measures to protect both personnel and the public during electoral activities.
3.5 Approachability of Security Officials
An impressive 95.1% of security officials were rated as approachable (43.9%) or very approachable (51.2%) by observers. Only 2.4% were considered somewhat approachable, and 2.4% were not approachable at all. This high level of approachability is indicative of community-friendly policing, which likely contributed to the peaceful atmosphere observed during the election. Observers noted that approachable officers were more effective in calming tensions, providing direction to voters, and facilitating the resolution of minor disputes at polling units. The approachability of security personnel also encouraged voters to report concerns and seek assistance when needed, thereby enhancing the overall voter experience and confidence in the electoral process.
3.6 Public Perception of Safety and Security
All observers, representing 100% of respondents, indicated that voters felt either safe and secure (31.7%) or very safe and secure (68.3%) around the polling centres. This outstanding outcome reflects positively on the overall security management during the election and validates the effectiveness of the security deployment strategy. The presence of security personnel appears to have successfully reassured voters and created an enabling environment for the exercise of democratic rights. Observers noted that voters, including women, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities, participated in the electoral process without visible fear or intimidation, which is a testament to the security agencies’ ability to maintain law and order throughout the election.
3.7 Arming of Security Personnel
The majority of security officials, representing 82.9%, were observed to be unarmed, while only 14.6% were armed with firearms. One observer, accounting for 2.4%, was unsure whether officers were armed. This reflects a predominantly soft approach to security, which is consistent with the overall peaceful conduct of the election and the emphasis on maintaining a non-intimidating atmosphere at polling units. The limited use of firearms likely contributed to the high levels of public confidence and approachability observed during the election, as voters were not confronted with excessive displays of force that could have created fear or tension at polling centres.
3.8 Overall Conduct Rating of Security Personnel
The overall conduct of security officials was rated positively, with 95.1% receiving ratings of “good” (61.0%) or “very good” (34.1%). Only 2.4% received a “fair” rating, and 2.4% received a “condemnable” rating. This demonstrates that the vast majority of security personnel conducted themselves professionally throughout the election, adhering to the Code of Conduct for Election Duty and maintaining order in a manner that facilitated the smooth conduct of the electoral process. The positive conduct ratings are consistent with other indicators, such as approachability and public safety perception, and suggest that security personnel largely fulfilled their duties in a manner that upheld the integrity of the electoral process.
3.9 Conduct of Security Personnel during Voting and Accreditation
Observers documented that security personnel conducted themselves professionally during the voting and accreditation process across the state. In Oye Ekiti LGA (Ward: Ayede south, PU: Unit 004), voter orientation was conducted at 8:33 a.m., indicating effective cooperation between security officials, ad hoc staff, and voters. Reports from Ekiti East LGA confirmed that accreditation proceeded in a peaceful conduct, with election materials arriving accompanied by security operatives. In Ado LGA, at St Thomas Primary School, the voting process commenced at precisely 8:30 a.m. with security agents present (2 Police officers and 1 NSCDC officer) and voting materials available. Security personnel were observed managing queues, ensuring orderly conduct, and assisting vulnerable voters, including the elderly and persons with disabilities, in accessing polling units and participating in the electoral process without hindrance.
3.10 Intervention in Electoral Malpractice
At Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA (Ward: 14, PU: Open space at Osekita junction, Iworoko), observers documented a suspicious case of vote buying where a voter revealed his vote and it was captured by the person it was revealed to. Security personnel, in collaboration with party agents, immediately cautioned the erring electorate, demonstrating appropriate intervention by security officials in preserving the integrity of the electoral process. This incident highlights the importance of security personnel being vigilant and proactive in addressing electoral malpractices, and the effective collaboration between security agencies and other stakeholders in upholding electoral integrity. The swift response to this incident likely deterred other potential violations and reinforced the message that electoral offences would not be tolerated.
3.11 Response to BVAS Functionality Challenges
Reports from several polling units indicated challenges with BVAS functionality, particularly during voter accreditation. In Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, a BVAS malfunction generated complaints from voters; however, there were no reports of violence or disruption, suggesting that the presence of security personnel helped maintain order. Similarly, in Ise/Orun LGA, Ward 03, PU 009, a faulty BVAS device was repaired but continued to experience intermittent difficulties, particularly in capturing voters’ facial biometrics. Additional BVAS-related challenges were reported across the state. In Oye LGA (Ward 5, PU 5), accreditation was delayed due to an initially non-functional BVAS, although the device became operational and accreditation resumed at 9:41 a.m. In Ado Ekiti (Oke Ila, PU 07) and Odo/Osi LGA, several elderly voters experienced difficulties with fingerprint and facial authentication. Likewise, in Ado Ekiti Ward 11, BVAS performance improved after voters cleaned their fingers with sanitizer, but some elderly voters continued to face delays during the accreditation process
3.12 Deployment of Election Logistics and Security Coordination
The joint deployment of security personnel under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) framework was implemented to secure the movement of electoral materials and personnel. Early arrival of election materials was a prevailing pattern across many LGAs, including Oye, Gbonyin, Ise/Orun, Ikole, Ekiti East, MOBA, and Ado, suggesting that logistics for material deployment were effectively secured. The Nigerian Air Force played a supportive role by airlifting sensitive electoral materials between 15th and 16th June to ensure secure delivery ahead of the election. In Ekiti East LGA, election materials arrived at 7:12 a.m., while reports from Ise/Orun LGA confirmed that electoral materials arrived timely followed by security personnel. However, the exception of missing Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ise/Orun represents a logistical gap that requires attention.
3.13 Activities of Party Agents and Collaboration with Security Personnel
Party agents were observed playing both constructive and concerning roles across the monitored polling units. In Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, party agents reportedly joined security personnel and election officials in cautioning an individual involved in an alleged vote-buying incident, reflecting a collaborative effort to uphold electoral integrity and maintain order at the polling unit. Observers also reported positive voter engagement activities in some locations. In Ekiti East LGA (Community Grammar School, Kota Omuo, PU 06), there was a notable turnout of women voters, while in Ado Ekiti, voters were seen verifying their details on the voters’ register with support from election officials and party agents.
However, concerns were raised regarding the conduct of some party agents. In Ado Ekiti (Oke Ila Ward, PU 07), party members were reportedly issuing tally slips to voters after they had cast their ballots and directing them to a location outside the polling unit, raising suspicions of possible vote-buying or voter inducement. Similarly, in Ijero LGA (Ward D, PU 002), observers reported instances of voters being influenced by party agents. These incidents underscore the need for closer monitoring of party agent activities to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines and to safeguard the integrity of the voting process.
Based on the observations and data analysis, CLEEN Foundation offers the following recommendations:
4.0 CONCLUSION
CLEEN Foundation concludes that the conduct of security personnel during the Ekiti State Governorship Election was largely professional, with an effective security presence that contributed to a peaceful electoral process. The early arrival of election materials accompanied by security operatives in most polling units was a positive development. The high levels of approachability (95.1%) and the positive overall conduct ratings (95.1% good or very good) reflect well on the professionalism of the security personnel deployed.
However, significant concerns remain. The perception that 46.3% of security officials were not impartial is deeply troubling and undermines public confidence in the electoral process. The isolated incident of “no security presence” in one polling unit, along with the attack on the Isan Police Station on the eve of the election, highlights the vulnerabilities in the security architecture that must be addressed.
CLEEN Foundation commends security agencies for their role in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere and intervening in incidents of electoral malpractice, such as vote buying. The fact that 100% of voters felt safe or very safe around polling centres is a testament to the effectiveness of the security deployment.
We urge the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to build on these successes and address the identified gaps, particularly on the issue of impartiality, to enhance future electoral security management. The CLEEN Foundation will continue to promote public safety and security as a cornerstone of democratic governance.
Signed:
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director,
CLEEN Foundation
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Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Date: June 19, 2026
As the citizens of Ekiti State prepare to head to the polls tomorrow, Saturday, June 20, 2026, to elect their next governor, the CLEEN Foundation issues this pre-election statement to guide stakeholders, security agencies, and the general public. In line with our mandate to promote election security management, CLEEN Foundation has actively monitored the pre-election environment and will be fully observing the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election through the deployment of CLEEN Foundation trained Election Observers accredited by INEC & Launch of the ESSC to ensure an unbiased assessment of security conduct and overall electoral integrity.
CLEEN Foundation has successfully trained her dedicated election observers who will be deployed across the length and breadth of the state. Furthermore, the CLEEN Foundation will officially open its Election Security Support Centre (ESSC) at the Fabian Hotel in Ado-Ekiti.
The ESSC will function as a central data hub on Election Day, operating in real-time to receive, verify, and document security and procedural incidents from our field observers across all the 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ekiti State.
Recall that the Security Threat Assessment Findings released by CLEEN Foundation revealed mixed indicators across the state. While the political atmosphere has remained relatively stable, our data identified specific flashpoint areas—particularly around localized borders and historically competitive constituencies that require sustained monitoring to prevent late-stage disruptions, cult-related clashes, or political thuggery.
We urge all security personnel to deploy intelligence-driven tactics to neutralize these risks and safeguard vulnerable polling units, collation centers, and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) personnel.
CLEEN Foundation commends CP. Abayomi Shogunle’s proactive management of the Ekiti security situation specifically his strategic decision to cancel the traditional Police Show of Force. By scaling back aggressive, high-visibility tactical convoys, he has effectively reduced public anxiety and voter apprehension across Ekiti communities. This thoughtful shift, combined with an airtight, multi-layered election security framework, is instrumental in reassuring citizens that the security presence is meant to protect, rather than intimidate, thereby paving the way for improved voter turnout.
Similarly, CLEEN Foundation wish to appreciate the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Ekiti state Police Command for his active participation, collaborative spirit, and professionalism ahead of this election. The prompt release of official emergency police contacts for the election is highly commendable. This proactive measure provides voters, observers, and civil society actors with clear channels to report urgent field issues, drastically enhancing public safety communication.
CLEEN Foundation commends the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for the extensive training and strategic deployment of adequate personnel across the state.
Crucially, a motivated security force is foundational to ethical policing. CLEEN Foundation highly commends the police authorities for prioritizing the welfare of frontline officers for optimal performance and minimizes field vulnerabilities, boosts morale, and reinforces professional conduct strictly within the bounds of the Electoral Act.
To the resilient people of Ekiti State, the stage is set for a peaceful democratic exercise as majority 88% of Ekiti residents expect the election to be peaceful. CLEEN Foundation strongly encourages all eligible, registered voters to come out en masse tomorrow, June 20, to cast their ballots without fear. Your security is prioritized, your vote is your power, and your peaceful participation is vital to sustaining democratic governance in Ekiti State.
Signed,
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
CLEEN Foundation
As part of its commitment to promoting credible elections, democratic accountability, and citizen participation in governance, CLEEN Foundation has concluded the training of accredited election observers and citizen observers ahead of the Ekiti State Governorship Election scheduled for 20 June 2026.
The training brought together observers from across the communities and focused on election observation methodologies, ethical standards, reporting procedures, election-day observation, conflict sensitivity, and the use of technology for incident reporting. Participants were equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to observe the electoral process professionally, impartially, and independently.
Election observation remains a critical component of democratic governance, helping to build public confidence in electoral processes while promoting transparency, accountability, and peaceful participation.
Democracy thrives when citizens are actively engaged and when electoral processes are transparent and credible. Through this initiative, we are supporting citizens to contribute meaningfully to the integrity of the electoral process while promoting peace and public trust,
For over two decades, CLEEN Foundation has played a leading role in supporting electoral integrity in Nigeria through evidence-based observation, citizen engagement, security sector accountability, and democratic governance initiatives. The Foundation’s election observation work contributes to strengthening institutions and ensuring that the voices of citizens are reflected in governance processes.
Ahead of the election, CLEEN Foundation will deploy trained observers and citizen observers across selected Local Government Areas and polling units in Ekiti State to independently observers the conduct of the security personnel during the election. The observers will assess key aspects of the electoral process, including voter accreditation, voting procedures, the conduct of election officials and security personnel, accessibility for voters, and compliance with electoral guidelines.
The Foundation will also maintain a situation room to receive, analyze, and verify reports from the field, enabling timely documentation of developments and emerging trends throughout the election period.
CLEEN Foundation calls on political parties, candidates, security agencies, electoral officials, the media, and citizens to uphold democratic values and contribute to a peaceful, inclusive, and credible electoral process. The Foundation further urges all stakeholders to reject violence, misinformation, vote-buying, hate speech, and any actions capable of undermining the will of the people.
The Ekiti Governorship Election presents another opportunity to deepen democratic consolidation in Nigeria. CLEEN Foundation remains committed to supporting citizens and institutions in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and advancing accountable governance.
Signed
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
CLEEN Foundation
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Abuja, Nigeria – 15th June 2026
CLEEN Foundation, Nigeria’s foremost non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting public safety, security sector accountability, justice reform, and democratic governance, announces a transition in the leadership of its Board of Directors.
The Foundation expresses its profound gratitude to Professor Abubakar Mu’azu, who has concluded his tenure as Chairman of the Board of Directors. During his stewardship, Professor Mu’azu provided exemplary leadership, strategic guidance, and unwavering commitment to the Foundation’s mission of advancing justice, accountability, human rights, and effective governance in Nigeria and across Africa.
Under his leadership, CLEEN Foundation strengthened its institutional capacity, expanded its programmatic reach, deepened partnerships with national and international stakeholders, and continued to serve as a leading voice in promoting citizen-centered security and justice reforms.
Speaking on behalf of the Foundation, the Board and Management commended Professor Mu’azu for his distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the growth and impact of the organization.
As CLEEN Foundation enters a new phase of institutional development, the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jude Ohanele as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Dr. Ohanele brings a wealth of experience in governance, leadership, organizational development, and public service, and is well-positioned to guide the Foundation in advancing its strategic objectives.
The Board also announced the appointment of Mrs. Olufunke Baruwa as the Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Mrs. Baruwa is a respected development practitioner and advocate with extensive experience in social justice, gender equality, human rights, and institutional strengthening. Her expertise and commitment will further enrich the Foundation’s governance and strategic direction.
Commenting on the appointments, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation stated:
“We are deeply appreciative of Professor Abubakar Mu’azu’s exceptional leadership and service to the Foundation. We are equally delighted to welcome Dr. Jude Ohanele as Chairman and Mrs. Olufunke Baruwa as Vice Chairperson. Their collective experience, vision, and commitment to social justice and democratic governance will be invaluable as CLEEN Foundation continues its work to build safer communities, strengthen accountability institutions, and promote access to justice for all.”
The Foundation remains committed to its mission of promoting public safety, security sector accountability, democratic governance, and respect for human rights. The new Board leadership will continue to provide strategic oversight and support for the organization’s efforts to drive sustainable reforms and positive social change.
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
June 12, 2026
Abuja
Democracy Day 2026: Embedding Community Security Architecture and Criminal Justice Compliance as Foundations of Democratic Practice
On the occasion of Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day anniversary, the CLEEN Foundation calls on the Federal Government, State Governments, the National Assembly, and all security and justice sector institutions to prioritize the embedding of community-led security architecture and rights-compliant criminal justice reform as foundational pillars of democratic practice in Nigeria. Twenty-seven years after the return to civilian rule, Nigeria’s democracy remains structurally fragile. The persistence of violent extremism, banditry, communal conflict, and organized crime compounded by systemic deficiencies in law enforcement accountability and criminal justice administration demonstrates that electoral cycles alone do not constitute democratic governance. Genuine democracy requires institutions that are responsive to citizens, security systems that communities trust, and justice mechanisms that uphold rights rather than violate them.
Nigeria’s centralized security architecture has proven inadequate to the scale and complexity of contemporary threats. The proposed State Police reform currently advancing through constitutional amendment represents a generational opportunity to restructure security governance. However, decentralization without community ownership, accountability safeguards, and human rights compliance risks merely fragmenting impunity rather than transforming protection. In similar vein, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and its state-level equivalents (ACJLs) remain largely unimplemented. Pre-trial detention abuse, torture in custody, weak prosecution standards, and inadequate legal aid continue to characterize a system that punishes poverty rather than protecting rights.
Urgent Call to Action:
Democracy is not a destination but a daily practice. It is practiced when communities participate in security governance rather than being subjected to it. It is practiced when courts respect due process rather than rubber-stating detention. It is practiced when security forces protect citizens rather than preying upon them.
Signed:
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
18 May 2026
Press Release
CLEEN Foundation Expresses Alarm Over Persistent Security Failures Despite Safe School Initiative and the National Safe School Response Coordination Centre
CLEEN Foundation strongly condemns the recent and distressing surge in insecurity following the events of Friday, May 15, 2026, where suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP gunmen attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba LGA, Borno State, abducting approximately 42 students. Within that same 24-hour window, the nation suffered a further blow as coordinated attacks were carried out on multiple schools in Orire LGA (Ogbomosho axis), Oyo State, including Baptist Nursery and Primary School, resulting in the abduction of roughly 45 students and teachers.
These harrowing events further highlight the chronic instability plaguing schools and communities nationwide, posing a direct threat to the safety, dignity, and future of Nigeria’s youth despite the Safe School Initiatives where stakeholders have sank fortune. CLEEN Foundation is deeply alarmed by the persistent targeting of educational institutions and the vulnerability of children within these settings. It is imperative that schools remain sanctuaries for growth and learning, rather than being transformed into arenas of fear and violence.
While we acknowledge the ongoing rescue operations, these tragedies serve as a stark indictment of the current presidential school safety initiatives. Despite significant investment, the ease with which schools in both Borno and Oyo were breached suggests that the National Plan for Financing Safe Schools is failing to deliver on its promise of deterrence. The persistence of these attacks signals a critical breakdown in the last mile of intelligence, where early warning signals fail to reach local administrators in time to prevent abductions. We must move beyond symbolic gestures and theoretical workshops toward a strategy that prioritises active, 24/7 rapid response and tangible protection on the ground.
There is now an urgent need to re-evaluate this centralized security architecture, which has proven insufficient in protecting geographically diverse communities. The crisis highlights a desperate necessity to pivot toward decentralised, community-driven security models that empower local actors and integrate them into the formal safety grid. To truly safeguard the future of Nigerian children, the government must shift from a reactive mindset of pursuing abductors to a proactive framework of total prevention. Real safety requires a radical commitment to transparency and localized accountability, ensuring that our learning environments are no longer treated as soft targets for terror.
In light of these developments, CLEEN Foundation would like to call on:
The continued attacks on schools threaten not only the right to education but also national peace, stability, and development going against the SDG 4 which ensures inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. Every child deserves access to education in a safe and secure environment without fear of abduction. CLEEN Foundation stands in solidarity with the affected families, schools, and communities during this difficult period and reiterates its commitment in promoting public safety, accountability, and the protection of human rights across Nigeria.
Signed
Peter Maduoma
Executive Director
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