Hashim Abioye, the chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), has stated that the police have sealed off the commission’s headquarters in Osogbo.
In a video posted on the OSSIEC X handle, Abioye accused the police of arresting election officials and preventing journalists from covering the local government election.
Abioye reported that several OSSIEC officials were detained while en route to polling units on Saturday.
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In the video, Abioye reassured voters that materials had been sent to the affected areas. “So far, the reports have been positive, and the process has been smooth and peaceful, contrary to the false alarms raised by the police. Everything is calm,” he said.
He went on to explain that while some areas had not yet received election materials, reports of police arrests of OSSIEC officials had emerged.
He expressed confusion over the reasons for these arrests, emphasizing that no court order had justified the detainment of their officials.
Abioye also assured the public that enough materials were available for distribution.
He apologized to the media for the shortage of tags and jackets, explaining that the police’s sealing of their office had prevented them from providing the necessary items.
Abioye’s remarks followed the police’s call for the local government election to be canceled, citing a security threat.
On Friday, Police Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi issued a statement saying the police had received credible intelligence warning of potential violence and security risks if the elections proceeded.
The police also indicated that various groups, including political factions, were preparing to disrupt the elections and undermine the democratic process.
Despite the police’s concerns, the Osun State government acknowledged the warning but chose to proceed with the election as planned.
