Police Logo
By Thomas Abidoye
The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Teslim Igbalaye, and five others over allegations of harbouring one Oladele Abiodun, popularly known as Ashipa, who has been on the command’s watchlist.
The command, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said its operatives arrested Abiodun at the SSG’s residence on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the statement, other suspects arrested at the residence include Mr Akande Taiwo, 60; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40.
The statement added that a cash sum of N4,810,500, one Dynabook laptop, one photocopy machine, one printer, two Permanent Voter Cards and a voters’ register for Wards 1 to 15 were reportedly recovered during the operation.
The police said the recovered items have been secured for forensic examination and further investigation.
Ojelabi explained that the operation followed credible and actionable intelligence indicating that suspected criminals were hiding around the Oroki Estate area of Osogbo.
He said police operatives carried out a lawful operation within the area, during which they arrested Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as Ashipa, who has been on the command’s watchlist in connection with serious criminal offences, including murder, at a residential property linked to the Secretary to the State Government.
The command stated that the recovery of cash and a register containing voters’ details had raised serious concerns over possible electoral offences.
According to the police, offences under investigation include alleged voter bribery contrary to Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022, criminal conspiracy, and harbouring or concealing a wanted suspect.
The command described the allegations as serious, noting that they have far-reaching implications for public security, the administration of justice and the credibility of the democratic process.
The police added that investigations have been intensified to identify all persons connected with the recovered exhibits and establish the source and intended use of the recovered funds.
The command assured residents of Osun State of its commitment to enforcing the law without fear or favour in line with its constitutional responsibilities.