Violence and Arrests Mark Osun Governorship Election

The Osun State governorship election held on Saturday saw a large voter turnout but was marred by incidents of violence, including ballot box snatching and the alleged teargassing of voters. Despite heavy security presence and traditional interventions, there were disruptions in various locations.

Notably, Hon. Abiola Ibrahim Inaolaji, a serving member of the Osun State House of Assembly representing Irewole/Isokan State Constituency, was arrested at his residence in Ikire during a joint operation by security operatives. Alongside him, 146 suspected electoral mercenaries were apprehended, with about 200 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) recovered from his home.

The Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the arrests as part of efforts to maintain electoral integrity. Additionally, a 97-year-old voter, Pa Isaac Adeniran Adesanmi, was highlighted for his commitment to voting, emphasizing the importance of participation in elections.