The Osun State Police Command and the state government are at odds regarding a recent police operation at the home of Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye. This tension surfaces as the state prepares for the governorship election on August 15.
Police spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi stated that the July 29 raid stemmed from intelligence regarding criminal activity. Officers reported seizing cash, voter registration lists, and Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) during the event. One individual apprehended was reportedly already listed as a person of interest in prior criminal matters. The police emphasized that the SSG was granted administrative bail after reporting to headquarters and maintained that his status does not exempt him from legal scrutiny.
Conversely, Osun State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, challenged the legitimacy of the raid. He criticized the detention of the SSG, who presented himself to authorities voluntarily. Jimi-Bada argued that the items seized, such as printed voter data and funds for party logistics, did not constitute evidence of illegal activities. He asserted that the presence of a wanted person at the residence should not implicate the SSG, noting that political mobilization is a lawful activity. The Attorney-General urged the police to provide concrete evidence of criminal conduct rather than relying on speculation.
The Police Command continues to maintain that its actions are non-partisan and focused on crime prevention. They are currently reviewing all evidence to determine if charges are warranted, while advising political actors to remain calm to ensure a secure election process.
