Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has alleged that police officers tear-gassed voters in parts of the state, raising concerns over voter intimidation and the conduct of the governorship election.
Adeleke spoke shortly after casting his vote at Unit 009, Ward 02, Agbogunde Sagba, in Ede North, at about 8:30 a.m.
The governor alleged that police personnel used tear gas to disperse voters in Modakeke and Obaku, claiming the action was intended to prevent people from remaining at polling units to vote.
He called on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to intervene, urging them to maintain neutrality and protect voters throughout the election.
«“The police are aiding the APC to teargas people so that they will not vote,” Adeleke alleged.»
Adeleke also accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to manipulate the election, including through the alleged production of fake ballot papers.
He further alleged that a police officer reportedly deployed from Port Harcourt, known by the nickname “London”, was in Ede to disrupt the election and intimidate voters.
The governor urged security authorities to investigate the allegations and prevent any action that could undermine the voting process.
The allegations, if confirmed, could raise serious concerns about voter intimidation and the ability of citizens to cast their ballots freely. However, the claims had not been independently verified at the time of filing this report.
The allegations come as voters turned out early at polling units across the state, with election officials preparing to commence voting.
At Unit 7, Oke-Oja in Osogbo, voters arrived from about 7:20 a.m. as officials prepared the polling unit for voting.
Two queues were organised at the unit, with one designated for elderly voters and another for younger voters.
The contrasting developments; allegations of intimidation alongside early voter turnout, have placed security and voter access at the centre of attention as Osun residents choose their next governor.
Adeleke said he remained confident of victory but urged security agencies to ensure that voters can exercise their civic rights without fear or interference.
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