We won’t bow to intimidation — Adeleke
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke declared the state will not yield to intimidation ahead of the August 15 governorship election, following the detention of the Secretary to the State Government.
- The police confirmed the release of the SSG, Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, who was detained with five others for alleged vote buying, with PVCs, cash, and a voters' register recovered from his residence.
- The All Progressives Congress (APC) called for the SSG's dismissal, citing the alleged presence of wanted criminals at his home, while the governor expressed confidence in his administration's achievements and the people's support.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has vowed that the state's residents will not be intimidated or coerced as the August 15 governorship election approaches. His declaration came after the detention of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, by police over alleged vote buying.
Throughout the history of Osun State, our people have never bowed to intimidation. We are resilient, determined, and fiercely protective of our rights.
The police confirmed Igbalaye's release, stating that he was detained alongside five others after a raid on his residence, where Permanent Voter Cards, cash, and a voters' register were found. Police spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed the SSG's release but noted that the investigation is ongoing.
As we approach the August 15 governorship election, I have absolute confidence that no amount of external interference or intimidation can override the collective will of the people of Osun State.
Governor Adeleke, while not directly addressing the detention, asserted that "no amount of intimidation or harassment will make the people of Osun State succumb to fear." He expressed confidence in his administration's record in areas like infrastructure, education, and healthcare, stating that "independent polls consistently point to a clear and decisive victory for Accord Party." Adeleke believes the people can see and feel the impact of his governance and that their verdict will prevail.
From infrastructure and education to healthcare, workers’ welfare, and pension reforms, our record speaks for itself.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council has called for the SSG's dismissal. The council's Media Committee Chairman, Remi Omowaye, accused the governor of failing to uphold his pledge to arrest his son if found wanting, citing the alleged presence of "wanted criminals" at Igbalaye's home. The APC insists the governor must be true to his word.
I can only tell you that the SSG, Mr Teslim Igbalaye has been released this afternoon and investigation is still ongoing.
Originally published by Vanguard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.