The distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) at an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) centre in Osun State was thrown into chaos on Sunday after armed hoodlums stormed the venue and fled with several packs of voter cards.
The attack occurred at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, Okuku, in Odo-Otin Local Government Area, where INEC officials were conducting the ongoing PVC distribution exercise.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants, believed to be between eight and 10 in number, arrived unexpectedly, fired several gunshots into the air, and caused panic among residents and prospective voters gathered at the venue. People reportedly fled in different directions as the attackers targeted the PVCs.
A resident, identified simply as Gbadebo, said the armed men moved directly to where election officials had placed the voter cards before escaping with several packs.
According to him, the attackers entered the premises unnoticed before opening fire into the air, forcing everyone present to run for safety while they carried out the operation.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that approximately 10 armed thugs attacked INEC officials who were peacefully carrying out the distribution exercise and made away with three packs of Permanent Voter Cards.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, strongly condemned the attack and ordered a full-scale investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The police said tactical and intelligence teams have been deployed across the area to track down the suspects and recover the stolen PVCs.
The command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order while assuring residents that efforts are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Police also appealed to members of the public, particularly eyewitnesses with useful information, to cooperate with investigators by reporting relevant details to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency communication channels.
Authorities further urged residents to remain calm, obey the law, and avoid actions that could heighten tensions as investigations continue.
