Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has raised concerns over what he described as a fresh move by security authorities to arrest key leaders of the Accord Party ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
Addressing journalists at the Government House in Osogbo, Adeleke alleged that intelligence available to his administration indicated that police authorities had issued directives for the arrest of prominent Accord Party figures, who would then be transported to Abuja and detained until after the election.
The governor described the alleged plan as unlawful and dangerous, warning that it could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and damage Nigeria’s democratic image.
According to Adeleke, any attempt to target opposition figures in the days leading to an election would amount to interference capable of influencing the outcome of the poll.
He disclosed that he had already contacted the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, urging him to investigate and halt any such operation if it existed.
“Arresting political leaders on the eve of an election creates the impression that security agencies are being used to influence the electoral process,” Adeleke said.
The governor also called for the arrest of Senator Francis Fadahunsi over a viral video in which the lawmaker was allegedly heard making inflammatory comments directed at Accord Party supporters and leaders.
Adeleke argued that the matter had moved beyond partisan politics and should be treated as a security issue requiring urgent attention from law enforcement agencies.
He further alleged that more than 62 Accord Party members remained in detention without formal charges, describing the situation as inconsistent with democratic norms and constitutional rights.
The governor also criticised what he termed the activities of the Intelligence Response Team, alleging that its operatives had been carrying out arrests of political actors across the state without justification.
The allegations come amid heightened political tensions ahead of the August 15 governorship election, which is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests in the country.
Political observers have continued to call on all stakeholders, including political parties, security agencies and electoral officials, to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
