Abuja: The spokesperson for The IMOLE Campaign Council, an Osun-based political group, Mr. Pelumi Olagbenjesi, has called for the unconditional release of Mr. Popoola Alaba, the Accord Party’s House of Representatives candidate. Olagbenjesi made the call at a news conference on Monday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Olagbenjesi also requested a thorough investigation into the arrest of 60 other residents of Osun. He stated, “Last week, we made a complaint to the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police about the arrest of some residents of Osun in different prisons and stations. One of them is Popoola Alaba, who was arrested in Ijesa and brought to Abuja. We are demanding that all persons who have been arrested unlawfully in Osun should be released.”
Olagbenjesi urged the police to maintain neutrality in their conduct and ensure a free and credible election in Osun. He emphasized, “We implore the I-G of Police to be neutral and ensure that his men do their job in line with the law. The unlawful arrest should stop. Popoola should be charged to court immediately; he is the candidate of the Accord Party in the coming election in Ijesa South. The police should assure citizens that they are capable of protecting lives and properties.”
He further called on the Police I-G to provide assurance to the people of Osun that the upcoming election would be conducted in a free and fair manner.