The Imole Campaign Council (TICC), on Saturday tasked the personnel of the Nigerian Army to resist temptation of becoming “pawns in the hands of desperate power-seeking politicians, plotting to hijack Osun governorship poll

A statement by the TICC spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, noted that the alleged use of soldiers and policemen to intimidate and arrest Accord Party members, candidates and supporters was crude, undemocratic and worrisome.

He recalled that “last night, soldiers in over 15 trucks stormed the residences of Accord Party leaders across the state, especially in Osun East Senatorial District, and detained innocent individuals.”

Olajengbesi, subsequently implored the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Waidi Shaibu, to act in accordance with the extant laws, in order to save the image of the Nigerian Army.

The statement reads: “We have reliably gathered that the soldiers were led by one ASP Wemimo, a policeman attached to Senator Francis Fadahunsi. Also in the company of the soldiers was APC chieftain, Sanya Omirin, who represents Atakunmosa East/Atakunmosa West/Ilesa East/Ilesa West Federal Constituency.

“During the unwarranted raid, Bankole Omisore, a Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke, was arrested last night and is still detained at the military cantonment in Ede. Also, a top Accord Party campaigner, Adeyemi Idowu, was arrested and is still detained.

“This development is shocking and undemocratic. Innocent citizens should not be picked up on election day. The Nigerian Army must obey the presidential directive to stay neutral and professional.