Police Deny Harassment Claims Ahead of Osun Election

The campaign organization of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has accused the Osun State Police of a crackdown on its supporters ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, claimed that the police are arresting and harassing party members to intimidate them, specifically citing the arrest of sitting Commissioner Mayowa Adejoorin, who allegedly faced humiliating treatment while in custody.

The statement condemned the misuse of state power and called for intervention from the media, civil society, and international observers to protect the electoral process. In response, police spokesperson Ani Iniedu stated that arrests are based on complaints or petitions, emphasizing that membership in a political party does not warrant arrest.

He also noted that some arrests may be linked to court orders that the police must follow. The situation unfolds as political parties ramp up their campaigns for the upcoming election.