The Osun State Police Command has taken into custody Teslim Igbalaye, the Secretary to the Osun State Government, along with five others, after conducting a raid at his Osogbo residence amid allegations of electoral misconduct.
This operation, which unfolded on Wednesday, was initiated based on intelligence regarding a suspected criminal network believed to be operating from the site, as reported by DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the Police Public Relations Officer.
In the course of the raid, officers seized ₦4,810,500 in cash, two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a voter register covering Wards 1 to 15, a Dynabook laptop, a photocopy machine, and a printer.
The other apprehended individuals were identified as Akande Taiwo (60), Oladele Abiodun (38), Adeyemo Lukman (45), Olaoye Muftau (50), and Aderemi Musliu (40). Authorities noted that Oladele Abiodun was already on the police watchlist due to links with other alleged criminal activities.
The command is investigating if the seized money and electoral documents were intended for vote buying, which is a punishable offence under Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022. The investigation also examines possible charges including harbouring a wanted suspect and criminal conspiracy, among other potential offences revealed through forensic analysis.
The police emphasized that these recoveries constitute a significant public concern since such alleged activities could jeopardize electoral integrity and public trust in democratic institutions.
The Commissioner of Police reassured Osun State residents that the investigation will be conducted impartially and professionally, underscoring that no one is above the law, regardless of their status or political ties.
In response, the Osun State Government criticized the police’s actions, claiming that officers entered the SSG’s residence without a valid search warrant. Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment Kolapo Alimi released a statement challenging the legality of the raid, alleging procedural breaches by the police.
As investigations proceed, all recovered items have been secured for forensic evaluation, and the suspects remain in custody until the inquiries are completed.
This situation has intensified political tensions in Osun State. Observers are attentively following developments as authorities continue delving into the alleged electoral infractions.
