Osun Election: Police Arrest Lawmaker, 143 Suspected Electoral Mercenaries in Ikire

The Osun State Police Command has arrested a serving member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiola Ibrahim Inaolaji, alongside 143 suspected electoral mercenaries allegedly camped at his residence in Ikire.

Inaolaji, who represents Irewole/Isokan State Constituency, was arrested during a police operation on Friday night, hours before the Osun governorship election. More than 200 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were reportedly recovered during the operation.

A video circulating from the arrest showed the lawmaker making a preliminary statement in which he identified himself and allegedly admitted to facilitating the movement of the suspects into Osun State from neighbouring states to participate in the election.

Police said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were brought into the state from Ondo State as part of an alleged plan to engage in unlawful electoral activities.

The suspects reportedly told investigators that an unidentified politician recruited them, allegedly arranged voter cards for them and promised them financial rewards in exchange for voting during the election.

The arrest comes as security agencies intensify operations across Osun to prevent activities capable of disrupting or undermining the credibility of the governorship poll.

Police spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed the arrests and said investigations were ongoing to identify other suspected accomplices who may still be at large. The command is also working to establish the full scope of the alleged recruitment network and possible offences involving voter inducement and electoral malpractice.

The police said further findings would determine the next steps in the case as authorities continue efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election in Osun State.