The Osun State Police Command has arrested the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, along with five other suspects over alleged vote buying, unlawful possession of electoral materials and related offences ahead of the August 15 governorship election. Authorities say cash, voter registers and other items were recovered during the operation.
The arrests followed a police operation at a residence linked to the SSG in the Oroki Estate area of Osogbo.
According to the police, the operation was based on actionable intelligence concerning suspected criminal activities in the area. During the raid, officers arrested six suspects, including Igbalaye, and recovered materials believed to be relevant to their investigation.
Cash, Voter Registers Recovered
Police spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi said operatives recovered approximately ₦4.8 million in cash, voter registers, permanent voter cards (PVCs), a laptop, printers and photocopying equipment during the operation.
The command said the suspects are being investigated for alleged vote buying, conspiracy and unlawful possession of electoral materials under the Electoral Act.
Police Cite Wanted Suspect
The command also stated that a wanted suspect, identified as Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as “Ashipa,” was traced to the property during the operation.
Police alleged that the suspect had been on their watchlist in connection with serious criminal offences, adding that investigations are continuing to determine the extent of the involvement of all those arrested.
State Government Reacts
The Osun State Government criticized the police operation, while the police maintained that the action was lawful and based on credible intelligence.
The command reiterated that no individual, regardless of political office or affiliation, is above the law and assured residents that anyone found culpable after investigations would be prosecuted.