Osun State Governor's Special Adviser Arrested for Alleged Defamation

Muniru Adebayo Raji, a Special Adviser to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, was arrested by the State Police Command on April 30, 2024, for alleged criminal defamation of character against former Commissioner Adebayo Adeleke. The former commissioner had filed a petition accusing Raji of falsely claiming on a radio program that Adeleke had secured a government contract and absconded with the money without executing the work.

According to the petition, Raji's accusation was considered untrue, false, and unfounded, and it had allegedly affected Adeleke's reputation, integrity, and honor. The former commissioner argued that Raji's actions were covered under Section 373 of the Criminal Code and that his life was in danger due to the public anger generated by the allegations.

Why this matters: The arrest of a high-ranking government official for alleged defamation highlights the ongoing tensions and political rivalries within Osun State. It also emphasizes the potential legal consequences of making unsubstantiated public accusations against individuals, especially those holding or having held public office.

Following his arrest, Muniru Raji was granted bail and is scheduled for further interrogation by the State Police Command. The investigation into the alleged defamation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to determine the veracity of Raji's claims and whether his statements constitute a criminal offense under the law.

"Raji's accusation was considered untrue, false, and unfounded, and it had allegedly affected Adeleke's reputation, integrity, and honor," the petition stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and their potential impact on the former commissioner's standing. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal process will address the alleged defamation and its consequences for both the accused and the complainant.

Key Takeaways

• Osun state official Muniru Raji arrested for alleged criminal defamation of former commissioner
• Raji claimed commissioner Adeleke absconded with government contract money, allegations deemed false
• Adeleke filed petition citing damage to his reputation, integrity, and honor
• Raji granted bail, investigation ongoing to determine veracity of claims and potential criminal offense
• Case highlights tensions and political rivalries within Osun state, legal consequences of unsubstantiated accusations