Arrest Comes as Security Is Tightened Ahead of Governorship Poll 
Security concerns have intensified in Osun State ahead of the governorship election following reports that 146 people suspected of being imported political thugs were arrested at the residence of a serving state lawmaker.
The reported arrest comes amid growing political tension in the state, with rival parties trading allegations over the alleged mobilisation of thugs ahead of the poll.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has separately raised an alarm over claims that suspected political thugs were being brought into Osun from outside the state. The party alleged that some were being accommodated at the Government House and could be deployed to disrupt voting in parts of Osogbo and Egbedore.
However, such allegations remain claims by political actors unless independently established by security authorities. Police and other security agencies have repeatedly warned politicians against recruiting or sponsoring political thugs and urged all parties to maintain peace.
With voters preparing to cast their ballots, the reported arrest is likely to heighten attention on security arrangements across Osun.
The priority for residents remains clear: a peaceful election where voters can cast their ballots without fear, intimidation or violence.