The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the reported arrest of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State Chairman, Abayomi Tella, alongside two officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), during the Remo Federal Constituency by-election on Saturday.
The officials, identified as Toryem Joe-Stans and Mandara Amina Mamman, were apprehended at Iperu Remo in the early hours of the day. They were allegedly found in possession of a large sum of money suspected to be intended for vote buying.
Confirming the development, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, told Hobnob News that the matter was under investigation.
“We are investigating the matter, that’s how much I can say for now. You may please call back later in the day for further information,” he stated.
A viral video circulating online showed Tella and the INEC staff in police custody, with a voice in the background alleging that the officials were caught “hobnobbing with politicians” and receiving money linked to electoral malpractice.
According to the narration in the video, one of the INEC staff reportedly confessed that the money was handed to him on the instruction of a constituency supervisor, who directed him to meet with political figures in a hotel at Iperu Remo.
However, Tella immediately denied any connection to the cash in question, insisting in the video:
“I don’t know anything about this money you’re talking about, and I am still waiting for you (the police) to tell me why I am here.”
The police said further details would be released as investigations continue.
