Security operatives have questioned Abiola Ibrahim, a member of the Osun State House of Assembly, after about 146 people were found gathered at a private residence in Ikire on Saturday, August 15, amid voting in the state governorship election.
Ibrahim, who represents the Irewole/Isokan Constituency and is a member of the Accord Party, was questioned by armed police officers at the property in the early hours of Saturday as voting commenced across Osun State.
A video circulating on social media showed the lawmaker answering questions from security personnel while the people found at the residence were seen sitting on the floor inside the premises.
Ibrahim told the officers that the property belonged to his late father, Raji Ibrahim.
Asked why such a large number of people were gathered at the residence on election day, the lawmaker said they had assembled to take part in the election.
“They are voters for the election happening today,” Ibrahim told the officers at the scene.
The security personnel subsequently asked whether everyone in the group was a registered voter from Ikire. Ibrahim acknowledged that some of those present were from outside the community.
“Some of them are, some of them are indigenes from outside. I did not hire them. I did not promise anything,” he said.
The officers also questioned the lawmaker about the political affiliations of those gathered and whether he had mobilised them to support a particular candidate.
Ibrahim maintained that the individuals were free to make their own choices at the polls.
“Voting is their choice. I’m not their agent,” he said, while confirming that he belongs to the Accord Party.
The footage also appeared to show security personnel holding Permanent Voter Cards belonging to some of the individuals at the residence. Ibrahim said the cards belonged to the people found at the property.
The incident comes as security agencies maintain a strong presence across Osun State during the governorship election. Authorities have warned against electoral offences, including voter inducement, unlawful mobilisation and other forms of malpractice capable of disrupting the voting process.
