Osun SSG Regains Freedom as Police Back Down Over Raid and Cash-Voter Register Controversy

The Secretary to the Osun State Government (SSG), Chief Teslim Igbalaye, has regained his freedom after spending 24 hours in police custody following a high-profile raid on his private residence in Osogbo.

The official’s detention had sparked intense political tension across the state. Police teams descended on Igbalaye’s Oroki Estate home following intelligence reports indicating that a wanted suspect on the police watchlist for grave offences, including murder, was hiding within the property.

During the raid, officers apprehended the SSG alongside five other individuals. The police command subsequently confirmed the recovery of ₦4.8 million in cash, laptops, printing equipment, voter cards, and a comprehensive voter register covering 15 electoral wards. According to law enforcement, the seized items prompted an immediate investigation into suspected vote-buying and criminal conspiracy ahead of the state governorship election.

However, political campaign groups and government supporters vehemently rejected the police account, describing the operation as an unlawful act of political intimidation targeted at key administration figures.

Announcing the SSG’s release, Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, expressed relief and commended police leadership for resisting external pressure and releasing the government official.

“The Nigerian Police Force best serves the nation when it stands against oppression and upholds justice and the rule of law,” Olajengbesi stated. “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.”

While Chief Igbalaye has returned to his duties, police authorities noted that forensic examinations of the recovered materials and investigations into the broader incident remain active.