Imole Campaign Council Alleges Police Misconduct in Osun

Less than two weeks before the Osun state governorship election, the Imole Campaign Council, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, submitted a petition to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). They alleged human rights abuses, politically motivated arrests, and misuse of police authority.

The council requested an investigation into these claims and immediate action to safeguard the rights of citizens and political participants. They called on Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to maintain neutrality and urged President Bola Tinubu to prevent security agencies from being used for political intimidation.

Spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi reported that supporters of the governor faced police harassment, with many arrested unlawfully. He noted that the police had reassigned the Osun State Commissioner of Police in response to public outcry, which led to the release of 26 detained campaign members.

However, the commissioner was later reinstated, raising concerns about police autonomy. The council also mentioned the unlawful arrest of Popoola Alaba, the Accord candidate for the Ijesa South House of Representatives.