The Osun State Police Command has arrested the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, and five other suspects following a raid linked to alleged vote-buying and the concealment of a wanted criminal. The state police spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the development on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, noting that the operation yielded significant financial and electoral exhibits.

The raid was executed after the command received credible and actionable intelligence regarding a criminal gang operating around the Oroki Estate area of Osogbo. Security operatives targeted a residential property linked to the SSG, where they were tracking a suspect identified as Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as ‘Ashipa’. Arowomole remains on the police watch list for serious criminal offences, including murder.

During the operation, police officers recovered a cash sum of N4,810,500, alongside one Dynabook laptop, one photocopy machine, and one printer. More critically, operatives seized two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and a comprehensive voter register covering Wards 1 to 15. All recovered items have been secured for forensic examination and further investigation.

Alongside the 57-year-old SSG, five other individuals found within the premises were taken into lawful custody. The police identified the other suspects as Akande Taiwo, 60; Oladele Abiodun, 38; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40.

The simultaneous recovery of millions in cash and a detailed voter register has raised serious concerns regarding possible electoral offences. Investigators have consequently broadened the scope of their enquiries to determine the source and intended use of the recovered funds.

The command disclosed that it is currently examining potential offences under the Electoral Act 2022. This includes the alleged bribery of voters through the distribution of money or inducements intended to influence voting decisions. Additionally, investigators are reviewing allegations of criminal conspiracy and the illegal harboring or concealment of a wanted suspect.

Police authorities emphasized that these are severe allegations with far-reaching implications for public security, the administration of justice, and the credibility of the democratic process. They noted that additional charges could still emerge as forensic examinations and evidence-gathering progress.

Reassuring residents, CP Ibrahim Gotan asserted that the Nigeria Police Force will enforce the law without fear or favor, regardless of political affiliation. "No individual, irrespective of social status or public office, is above the law," Gotan stated, confirming that any person found culpable will face full prosecution under the law.