The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused security agencies of plotting to arrest its National Secretary and former Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in the run-up to Saturday’s governorship election in the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party warned that arresting the former Minister of Interior on the eve of the poll would heighten political friction and compromise the integrity of the voting process. The ADC expressed grave concern over what it described as a systemic pattern of intimidation, harassment, and the misuse of state machinery against opposition figures.
The high-stakes Osun election has sparked widespread concern among political parties and civil society groups regarding election security, inflammatory rhetoric, and potential violence. The poll carries significant national weight, with many viewing it as a pivotal test for the broader realigning of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party asserted that any legitimate security inquiry involving Aregbesola should follow standard legal protocols rather than abrupt detentions that appear politically motivated to disrupt his campaign coordination responsibilities. Abdullahi cautioned that attempting to sideline a key opposition leader right before voting begins would leave no doubt as to the state’s intentions, stating:
> “An arrest on the eve of an election in which his party is participating would invite only one reasonable conclusion: that the purpose is to prevent him from leading and coordinating the party’s election activities.”
Calling on the authorities to show restraint, the ADC warned the ruling party against provoking unnecessary instability in the state, adding:
“The APC Federal Government must be wary of doing anything that could plunge Osun State into needless crisis.”
Putting the Federal Government and security agencies on notice, the opposition party reminded the administration that the electorate is closely watching their conduct. Urging the government to safeguard democratic norms and ensure fair participation for all political parties, Abdullahi concluded:
“Nigeria is still a democracy, and the government would do well to remember that before Saturday.”