Security operatives have confronted a member of the Osun State House of Assembly representing Irewole/Isokan Constituency, Abiola Ibrahim, after he was reportedly found with a large group of voters at a private residence in the Ikire area of the state.
A viral video circulating on social media on Saturday showed armed police officers questioning the lawmaker at the residence, which Ibrahim identified as the property of his late father, Raji Ibrahim.
The incident occurred early Saturday as voting commenced across the 30 local government areas of Osun State for the governorship election.
About 146 individuals were reportedly found at the residence, with footage showing some of them seated on the floor while security operatives questioned the lawmaker.
When asked why the group had gathered at the residence on election day, Ibrahim told the officers, “They are voters for the election happening today.”
The officers further questioned whether those gathered were registered voters from the Ikire community. Ibrahim acknowledged that the group comprised both local residents and people from outside the area.
“Some of them are, some of them are indigenes from outside. I did not hire them. I did not promise anything,” he explained.
Security operatives also questioned Ibrahim about the political affiliation of the individuals and whether he was mobilising them to vote for a particular candidate.
“Voting is their choice. I’m not their agent,” Ibrahim responded, while confirming that he is a member of the Accord Party.
Footage from the scene also showed security operatives holding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), which Ibrahim said belonged to the individuals gathered at the residence.
The incident comes amid heightened security across Osun State, with the Nigeria Police Force deploying senior officers and warning political actors against electoral malpractice, voter intimidation, thuggery and unlawful mobilisation.
Ahead of the governorship election, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ishyaku Mohammed to oversee security operations in the state and directed security personnel to take firm action against electoral offences.
Click the link to watch the video.