By Jija-Bokoti Media
August 15, 2026
The Osun State Police Command has arrested a serving member of the State House of Assembly alongside 146 suspected electoral mercenaries allegedly found at his residence in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area.
The lawmaker, identified as Hon. Abiola Ibrahim Inaolaji, represents the Irewole/Isokan State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly.
According to the police, the suspects were arrested during an early-morning operation on Saturday, with 200 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) reportedly recovered from the residence.
The development comes amid heightened security operations ahead of the Osun State governorship election, as security agencies intensify efforts to prevent activities capable of undermining the credibility and peaceful conduct of the poll.
Police Confirm Arrest
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the arrest.
A video obtained following the operation reportedly showed the lawmaker making a preliminary statement in which he identified himself and allegedly said he facilitated the movement of the 146 suspects into Osun State from neighbouring states to participate in the governorship election.
However, the allegations remain under investigation, and the circumstances surrounding the suspects’ presence at the residence are yet to be fully established.
Police said the operation was carried out by the FBI IRT as part of intensified security measures ahead of the election.
Another 33 Suspects Arrested in Ede
In a separate operation, police operatives arrested another 33 suspected electoral mercenaries at Babs Hotel, located behind the State High Court in Ede.
The group reportedly comprised 30 males and three females.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were brought into Osun State from Ondo State for alleged unlawful electoral activities.
Four voters’ cards were reportedly recovered from the suspects as exhibits.
Suspects Allegedly Recruited for Voting
The police said the suspects told investigators that an unidentified politician recruited them and promised them financial rewards in exchange for voting.
Further investigations are expected to determine the identity of the alleged recruiter and establish the specific roles of those involved.
The arrests form part of broader security preparations surrounding the Osun governorship election, with authorities warning against activities capable of compromising the integrity of the electoral process.
Investigation Underway
While the arrests and recoveries have been announced by the police, investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged electoral mobilisation.
The suspects are expected to face further questioning as investigators work to determine whether electoral offences were committed and identify any individuals or political actors connected to the alleged operation.
Jija-Bokoti Media will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information emerges from the police investigation.
Jija-Bokoti Media
International News and Magazine
Reporting Leadership • Documenting Development • Giving Voice to the People
