The Osun State Police Command has arrested the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, along with five other suspects, over an alleged vote-buying investigation in Osogbo.
The arrests followed a police operation at a residence linked to the SSG in Oroki Estate, where officers reportedly recovered N4.81 million in cash, a voter register covering Wards 1 to 15, two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a Dynabook laptop, a printer and a photocopy machine.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the operation was based on credible intelligence and was initially aimed at apprehending a wanted suspect, Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as “Ashipa,” who is on the police watch list over alleged involvement in serious crimes, including murder.
Police said the recovered cash and electoral materials raised concerns over possible violations of the Electoral Act 2022, particularly allegations of voter inducement and other electoral offences.
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The five other suspects arrested are Akande Taiwo, 60; Oladele Abiodun, 38; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40. They were all found within the premises during the operation and taken into custody for investigation.
Investigators are also examining possible offences relating to criminal conspiracy and the alleged harbouring of a wanted suspect. The recovered items have been secured for forensic examination as the probe continues.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan said the command would pursue the investigation without fear or favour, stressing that no individual is above the law. He added that anyone found culpable at the end of the investigation would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
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