Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo on Thursday, the council’s head of media and publicity, Remi Omowaiye, urged the state government to step aside and let security agencies conduct a thorough, unobstructed investigation.

Key Points from the APC:

• Interference Allegations: Omowaiye expressed strong concern that Governor Adeleke was actively trying to secure the release of individuals detained during the raid at the SSG’s home.

• Call for Dismissal: Arguing that shielding suspects undermines the rule of law, Omowaiye stated that Governor Adeleke must fire Igbalaiye to prove he does not condone criminality.

• Praise for Law Enforcement: The campaign council commended the Osun State Police Command and the Inspector-General of Police Special Squad for their professionalism during the operation.

Adeleke Campaign Dismisses Allegations as “Politically Motivated”

In a swift response, Jamiu Olawumi, the Director of Strategic Communication for the Imole Campaign Council, brushed off the APC’s demands, labeling the accusations as cheap political attacks meant to tarnish the SSG’s reputation.

Key Points from the Adeleke Campaign:

• Character Defense: Olawumi defended Igbalaiye as a dedicated patriot, a trained lawyer, and a respected native of Osogbo whose stellar background cannot be easily undermined.

• Dismissal of Critics: He characterized the opposition’s outcry as “wailings” from political rivals who lack the matching stature, achievements, or commitment to service delivery that the SSG possesses.

Background Context

Police operatives raided the SSG’s Osogbo residence on Wednesday, leading to arrests including that of the wanted suspect. While Igbalaiye was subsequently released by the police on Thursday, law enforcement authorities confirmed that investigations into the matter remain active.

• First Interrogation: Ma’aji noted that rumors of his involvement surfaced as early as 2023. He was detained overnight by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) over claims that politicians intended to use him to disrupt the 2023 general elections.

• Release: Following a forensic examination of his mobile phone, he was released with a verbal apology due to a lack of evidence.

Revival of the Movement in 2024

• Career Setbacks: After failing to secure a promotion to brigadier general for a second time in 2024, junior officers allegedly pressured him to restart the plan out of fear that he would face premature retirement.

The Arrest on September 29, 2025

• The Setup: Ma’aji stated he was lured into custody under the guise of an official meeting regarding his promotion.

• The Sting: He received calls from both the Chief of Staff to the Army Chief and then-Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, urging him to report to House 12 at the Niger Barracks. He was even given $1,000 as “welfare support.”

• Detention: Upon arrival, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, directed Ma’aji to accompany him to DIA headquarters under false pretenses. Instead, he was led to the office of the Director of Operations, Brig. Gen. Nicholas Ashinze, where interrogations regarding the alleged conspiracy began.

• Co-Conspirators: Investigators confronted him with evidence implicating other officers, including the already-arrested Lt. S.S. Felix and the fugitive Lt. Col. Shamsuddeen Bappah.

Ma’aji’s Appeal and Grievances

In his final statement, Colonel Ma’aji appealed for leniency, maintaining that he and his co-accused acted out of patriotism rather than personal greed. He highlighted deep-seated issues within the armed forces, citing:

• Worsening soldier welfare and inadequate housing.

• Economic hardship and plummeting troop morale.

He urged military leadership to create secure, internal grievance channels so personnel can voice complaints safely without fear of victimization.