Police in Osun State have detained the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, and five other suspects as part of an investigation into alleged vote-buying activities in Osogbo.
The arrest was announced in a statement released on Wednesday by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, representing the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.
The police were acting on reliable intelligence about a criminal gang operating in the Oroki Estate area of Osogbo. They executed a raid on a residence linked to the SSG while searching for Abiodun Arowomole, known as “Ashipa,” who is wanted for serious crimes, including murder.
During the raid, authorities recovered 4.8 million Naira in cash, along with a Dynabook laptop, a photocopy machine, a printer, two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and a voter register detailing Wards 1 to 15.
The items have been secured for forensic analysis to assess their connection to the alleged crimes.
Alongside Igbalaye, those arrested are Akande Taiwo (60), Oladele Abiodun (38), Adeyemo Lukman (45), Olaoye Muftau (50), and Aderemi Musliu (40). All suspects remain in police custody.
The discovery of cash and a voter register has raised alarms about potential breaches of the Electoral Act 2022, suggesting possible voter inducement through cash distribution aimed at swaying the electoral process.
Investigations are also delving into possible criminal conspiracy charges and the suspected concealment of a wanted individual. Further charges may be filed based on forensic results and ongoing inquiries.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan emphasized the command’s dedication to unbiased law enforcement, highlighting that no one is above the law, regardless of their political or public standing.
He pledged a thorough and transparent investigation, assuring that anyone found guilty will be prosecuted under Nigeria’s Constitution and other relevant laws.
The public is urged to remain calm and continue to support security agencies by providing credible information that could aid investigations into alleged electoral malpractices and other illicit activities.
