The Imole Campaign Council has called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to investigate the reported arrest and subsequent release of an All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly candidate, Babatunde Festus Komolafe, over alleged possession of a firearm.
Komolafe, popularly known as BFK, who is the APC candidate for Atakumosa East/West Local Government Area, was reportedly arrested by personnel of the Nigerian Navy in Ifewara, Osun State, on Thursday.
According to the campaign council, the candidate and some of his supporters were apprehended during a routine search while travelling in a campaign vehicle reportedly belonging to the APC. A gun was allegedly discovered in the vehicle.
The council said footage of the arrest had circulated on social media, attracting public attention.
However, the council alleged that Komolafe and the other suspects were subsequently released following pressure from senior APC figures.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Pelumi Olajengbesi, the council commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Navy, for what it described as their neutrality and professionalism during the election campaign.
The council, however, described the reported release of a suspect allegedly found with an unauthorised firearm as unacceptable.
It argued that such a development could send the wrong signal to political actors involved in violence and undermine efforts to ensure a peaceful governorship election.
The campaign council also referenced the recent arrest of five alleged APC supporters, including a man identified as Asiri Eniba, by naval personnel in Ile-Ife over alleged sporadic shooting.
It alleged that the suspects were subsequently rescued following an attack on military personnel by police officers, a claim that would require independent verification.
The council urged Ribadu to investigate the circumstances surrounding Komolafe’s release and ensure that anyone found to have violated the law is held accountable.
“No politician is above the law, and no political thug should be released to keep fomenting trouble,” the statement said.
The Imole Campaign Council said it remained committed to a peaceful electoral process and urged security agencies to maintain their professionalism and impartiality ahead of the governorship election.
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