METRO
OSUN POLICE ARREST MAN OVER ALLEGED N8.5M RAMADAN FOOD SUPPLY FRAUD
The Osun State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest and detention of Soladoye Fasanjo Keji following public reactions from a group known as the Concerned Youths of Odo Otin Local Government Area.
In a statement issued in Osogbo on Sunday, the command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, explained that the suspect was arrested after allegedly failing to honour several police invitations regarding a petition filed against him.
According to the police, the petition was submitted by the law firm Atelele & Egbedinini Chambers on behalf of Damilare Eniade Francis to the office of the Commissioner of Police on February 25, 2026.
The petition reportedly accused Keji of offences including obtaining money under false pretences, criminal intimidation, and threat to life.
Police said the allegations involve about N8.5 million, which was allegedly transferred to the suspect in November 2025.
The funds, according to the statement, were meant for the procurement and distribution of Ramadan food packages to vulnerable residents across Osun State during the holy month.
Investigators said the suspect had claimed he could arrange the supply through a food and provision store he said he owned. However, the police noted that the promised food items were never delivered, prompting the complaint that led to the investigation.
The command disclosed that Keji was arrested around 7:45 p.m. on March 7, 2026, in the Faji area of Okuku within Odo Otin Local Government Area.
Ojelabi explained that the arrest followed repeated instances in which the suspect allegedly ignored invitations from investigators.
“The arrest became necessary only after repeated non-compliance, in line with standard police procedures to ensure the suspect appears for questioning,” the statement said.
The police added that the operation was carried out professionally and in accordance with the law. They also stated that the suspect is being treated in line with constitutional provisions, including his right to legal representation and due process.
The command urged residents, community leaders, and youth groups in Odo Otin and across Osun State to remain calm as investigations continue, assuring that the matter will be taken to court once the investigation is concluded.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board