The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly has alleged that the state’s Commissioner of Police directed officers to arrest the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the Speaker, the incident occurred during discussions involving electoral officials, political stakeholders, and security agencies ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state. He claimed that the directive created tension at the meeting and raised concerns about the conduct of security personnel during the election period.
The Speaker described the alleged action as inappropriate, arguing that security agencies should maintain neutrality and professionalism in handling electoral matters. He maintained that public officials attending lawful meetings should not be subjected to intimidation or actions capable of undermining confidence in the electoral process.
He further called on the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities to ensure that all security personnel deployed for election duties act impartially and strictly within the provisions of the law. The Speaker stressed that credible elections require cooperation among political parties, electoral officials, and security agencies.
The allegation comes amid heightened political tension in Osun State as political parties intensify preparations for the governorship election. Security agencies have repeatedly appealed to political actors and their supporters to avoid violence, hate speech, and actions capable of disrupting public peace.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official confirmation from the Nigeria Police Force substantiating the Speaker’s allegation. Authorities have continued to assure residents that adequate security measures are being put in place to guarantee a peaceful, free, and credible governorship election.