Osun 2026: Lawmaker Condemns Arrest of Accord Leader, Alleges Political Intimidation in Esa-Oke

 

By Abel Chigozie 

 The lawmaker representing Obokun State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi Irekandu, has condemned the arrest of Chief Oluwasesan Orija, popularly known as Mewo, describing the operation as an act of political intimidation that has no place in a democratic society.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Irekandu expressed concern over what he described as the selective targeting of opposition members in Esa Oke, calling on the Inspector General of Police to immediately investigate the incident and ensure that law enforcement agencies remain professional, impartial, and politically neutral.

According to the lawmaker, armed security operatives reportedly stormed the residence of Chief Orija, a respected traditional chief and leader of the ACCORD Party in Esa Oke, during the early hours of Tuesday. He alleged that the operatives searched the residence, handcuffed the party leader in the presence of his wife, and took him into custody.

Irekandu described the manner of the arrest as "deeply troubling," saying it demands an immediate explanation from the authorities.

The legislator further claimed that other opposition members in the community were also targeted during the operation. He alleged that security operatives attempted to arrest several individuals and, in some cases, reportedly forced open doors before leaving after failing to locate the occupants.

He said the reported actions have heightened concerns about the conduct of security agencies during the current political atmosphere in Osun State.

The lawmaker also questioned what he described as the contrast between the swift operation against opposition figures and the unresolved killing of an individual identified as Rogba in Esa Oke.

According to him, despite the fatal incident, no arrest has been made in connection with the killing, a situation he said raises questions about the impartiality of law enforcement and could undermine public confidence in the police.

"The Nigeria Police Force is expected to protect lives and property, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard the constitutional rights of every Nigerian. It must never act, or appear to act, in a manner that creates the impression of political bias," he stated.

Irekandu stressed that elections should be decided through the ballot box rather than through intimidation, harassment, or the suppression of political opponents.

He urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate the reported arrests, ensure that constitutional rights are respected, and provide a clear explanation for the operations carried out in Esa Oke. He added that anyone accused of committing an offence should be subjected to due process in accordance with the law.

The lawmaker also appealed to residents of Obokun State Constituency to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic principles despite the reported developments.

"Our communities deserve justice. They deserve security. They deserve policing that is impartial, professional and fair. Democracy can only flourish where the rule of law is applied equally to everyone, regardless of political affiliation," the statement concluded.