Security operatives have questioned a member of the Osun State House of Assembly, Abiola Ibrahim, after about 146 people were found gathered at a private residence in Ikire on Saturday, the day of the state’s governorship election.
Ibrahim, who represents Irewole/Isokan Constituency, was confronted by armed police officers at the residence in the early hours of the morning as voting got underway across the state.
A video of the incident circulating on social media showed the lawmaker responding to questions from the security personnel while the individuals were seen sitting on the floor inside the premises.
Ibrahim identified the property as the residence of his late father, Raji Ibrahim.
When asked why such a large number of people were gathered at the property on election day, the lawmaker said they had come to participate in the election.
“They are voters for the election happening today,” the lawmaker informed the officers on site.
The officers, however, sought clarification on whether those gathered were registered voters from Ikire, prompting Ibrahim to acknowledge that the group included people from within and 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 explained.
The interrogation also touched on the political affiliations of the individuals and whether Ibrahim was responsible for mobilising them in support of a particular candidate.
“Voting is their choice. I’m not their agent,” Ibrahim responded, while confirming his membership of the Accord Party.
