By Peace Erewunmi

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Osun State, Wole Jimi-Bada, has demanded the immediate release of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, describing his arrest by the police as unlawful and questioning the timing of the operation ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The Attorney-General argued that the police raid on the SSG’s residence was carried out without sufficient justification and raised concerns that the operation could heighten political tension in the state. He maintained that the action undermined public confidence in the neutrality of security agencies during the election period.

The Osun State Government insisted that the SSG was attending an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stakeholders’ meeting when the raid occurred, adding that those present at the residence were party officials holding a political meeting rather than engaging in any criminal activity. It also rejected allegations of vote-buying levelled against the SSG.

The police had earlier announced the arrest of Igbalaye and five others after recovering ₦4.81 million, voter registers, Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a laptop, a printer and other items from the premises. The Command said the investigation was linked to alleged electoral offences and the harbouring of a wanted suspect.

Less than 24 hours after the arrest, the police released the SSG. However, the Command has not officially stated whether investigations have been concluded or whether charges will be filed against him or the other suspects.

The incident has intensified political debate in Osun ahead of the governorship election, with both the state government and opposition parties exchanging accusations over the role of security agencies in the electoral process.