Police Arrest Osun SSG, 5 Others Over Alleged Vote-Buying

The police, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, said the operation was launched following intelligence reports concerning the activities of a suspected criminal group operating within the Oroki Estate area of the state capital.

Investigators disclosed that operatives raided a residential property reportedly linked to the SSG while searching for a wanted suspect, Abiodun Arowomole, also known as “Ashipa,” who is on the police watch list over allegations including murder.

During the operation, officers reportedly recovered ₦4,810,500 in cash, a Dynabook laptop, a photocopy machine, a printer, two Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and a voter register covering Wards 1 to 15. The police stated that all recovered items have been secured and will undergo forensic examination as investigations continue.

The command confirmed that those taken into custody include Igbalaye, 47; Akande Taiwo, 60; Oladele Abiodun, 38; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40. According to the police, all six individuals were present at the premises during the operation and were subsequently arrested.

Authorities said the discovery of large sums of cash alongside electoral materials has expanded the scope of the investigation, raising concerns over possible electoral offences and other criminal activities.

The police revealed that detectives are examining potential violations of the Electoral Act 2022, including allegations of voter inducement through the distribution of money or other incentives. Investigators are also probing possible criminal conspiracy, as well as allegations of harbouring or concealing a wanted suspect.

The command added that further offences could be established depending on the outcome of forensic examinations and additional evidence gathered during the investigation.

Reassuring residents, the police said efforts are being intensified to identify everyone connected to the recovered exhibits, trace the source and intended use of the funds, and determine the full extent of the alleged criminal operation.

Commissioner Gotan reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to enforcing the law impartially, stressing that no individual, regardless of political affiliation, social standing, or public office, is above the law. He added that anyone found culpable at the conclusion of the investigation would be prosecuted in accordance with the Constitution and other relevant laws.