Sack Your SSG Now!’ – Osun APC Challenges Adeleke Following Arrest Controversy

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to remove the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, following the arrest of a suspect during a police operation at his residence.

The opposition party also urged the governor to allow security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation without interference, insisting that the matter should be handled in accordance with the law.

Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, the APC Campaign Council’s Director of Media and Publicity, Remi Omowaiye, alleged that the Adeleke administration was attempting to influence the ongoing investigation.

Omowaiye expressed concern over reports suggesting that the governor was making efforts to secure the release of individuals arrested during the operation at the SSG’s residence.

He argued that any attempt to shield those under investigation would undermine the rule of law and weaken the criminal justice system.

“No government that genuinely desires peace and security should be seen obstructing lawful investigations or protecting anyone from accountability,” Omowaiye said.

He further called on Governor Adeleke to immediately relieve Igbalaye of his duties if he wished to demonstrate that his administration does not tolerate criminality.

According to the APC spokesperson, the governor should set aside political considerations, cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and allow investigators to complete their work without interference.

Omowaiye also commended officers of the Osun State Police Command and the Inspector-General of Police Special Squad for what he described as their professionalism and commitment to combating crime in the state.

Adeleke Camp Rejects APC’s Demand

Responding to the APC’s position, the Director of Strategic Communication of the Imole Campaign Council, Jamiu Olawumi, dismissed the call for Igbalaye’s removal, describing it as a politically motivated attempt to tarnish the image of the Secretary to the State Government.

Olawumi maintained that Governor Adeleke had confidence in Igbalaye’s integrity and record of public service, describing him as a respected legal practitioner and committed public servant.

He said the allegations against the SSG were part of efforts by political opponents to damage his reputation, insisting that they could not diminish his contributions or political standing.

According to Olawumi, critics of the SSG were simply uncomfortable with what he described as his record of excellence in service delivery.

The APC’s demand followed Wednesday’s police operation at Igbalaye’s residence in Osogbo, during which he was briefly taken into custody.

The Osun State Police Command released the SSG on Thursday, stating that investigations into the incident are continuing.