Fresh Political Storm As Police Detain Osun SSG Over Alleged Vote-Buying

The Osun State Police Command has arrested the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, and five other individuals as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged vote-buying and other suspected criminal activities in Osogbo.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.

According to the police, the arrests followed credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected criminal syndicate operating in the Oroki Estate area of Osogbo.

Operatives reportedly stormed a residence allegedly linked to the SSG while searching for a wanted suspect, Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as “Ashipa,” who is on the police watch list over alleged involvement in serious crimes, including murder.

During the operation, officers recovered ₦4,810,500 in cash, a Dynabook laptop, a photocopier, a printer, two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and a voter register containing details of Wards 1 to 15.

Police said the exhibits have been secured for forensic analysis as investigations continue.

The command confirmed that Igbalaye, 47, was arrested alongside Akande Taiwo, 60; Oladele Abiodun, 38; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40.

According to the police, all six suspects were found at the property during the raid and were taken into custody for questioning.

The command noted that the discovery of the cash and electoral materials has expanded the scope of the investigation.

“The recovery of the cash and the register containing voters’ details raises serious concerns about possible electoral offences and other criminal activities,” the statement said.

The police disclosed that investigators are examining potential violations of the Electoral Act 2022, including allegations of vote-buying through the distribution of money or other inducements intended to influence voters.

Authorities are also probing possible criminal conspiracy, as well as allegations of harbouring or concealing a wanted suspect.

The command added that additional charges could arise depending on the outcome of forensic examinations and other evidence gathered during the investigation.

Describing the allegations as grave, the police said the case has significant implications for public security, the justice system, and the integrity of the electoral process.

The command assured residents that efforts were underway to identify everyone connected to the recovered items, trace the source and intended use of the cash, and uncover the full extent of the alleged criminal network.

Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan reaffirmed the force’s commitment to enforcing the law impartially.

“No individual, regardless of status, political affiliation, or public office, is above the law. Anyone found culpable at the end of the investigation will be prosecuted in accordance with the Constitution and all relevant laws,” he said.