The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the release of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, while investigations into alleged vote-buying offences continue.
Igbalaye, who was detained alongside five other suspects, regained his freedom on Thursday afternoon after being questioned over allegations of vote-buying. During the operation, police reportedly recovered Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), cash, and a voters’ register from his residence.
The command identified the other suspects as Abiodun Arowomole, popularly known as “Ashipa,” who police described as a wanted murder suspect on the command’s watch list, as well as Taiwo Akande, Lukman Adeyemo, Muftau Olaoye, and Musiliu Aderemi.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said Igbalaye had been released but emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
“I can only confirm that the SSG, Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, was released this afternoon. The investigation is still ongoing,” Ojelabi said.
The SSG’s release has sparked celebrations among supporters of Governor Ademola Adeleke. Reacting to the development, the spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Osun State Commissioner of Police for what he described as responding to the “voice of reason.”
Olajengbesi praised the police leadership for handling the matter with fairness despite alleged external pressure, describing Igbalaye’s arrest as unlawful.
“The Nigerian Police Force best serves the nation when it stands against oppression and upholds justice and the rule of law. Welcome back, Chief Igbalaye Teslim. Your courage and sacrifice for the people of Osun State will not be forgotten. Our SSG is out, back and solid,” he said.
The police have not disclosed whether any charges will be filed against the suspects, maintaining that investigations into the allegations are still in progress.
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