ORIYOMI HAMZAT DENIES ALLEGED LINKS TO POLICE WANTED SUSPECT, CONDEMNS SMEAR CAMPAIGN

ORIYOMI HAMZAT DENIES ALLEGED LINKS TO POLICE WANTED SUSPECT, CONDEMNS SMEAR CAMPAIGN

Oyo State governorship candidate of the Accord Party, Oriyomi Hamzat, has strongly denied allegations linking him to an individual recently declared wanted by the Nigeria Police Force, describing the claims circulating on social media as a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation.

In a press statement released on Sunday, Hamzat reacted to reports attempting to associate him with Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju,” who is reportedly being sought by law enforcement authorities over alleged criminal matters.

The media personality and politician described the publication as malicious, mischievous, and politically motivated, stating that certain individuals were intentionally trying to tarnish his image through what he called baseless propaganda.

Hamzat said he was compelled to publicly respond because of the risk of misinformation and the need to correct what he described as false narratives being circulated online.

According to him, he has never sponsored, encouraged, protected, or supported anyone involved in criminal activities, stressing that his public life as a broadcaster, humanitarian, and politician has always been guided by justice, truth, and respect for the rule of law.

He argued that attempts to hold him responsible for the alleged actions of another individual simply because of previous association, employment, or acquaintance were misleading and unfair.

Hamzat maintained that knowing or interacting with someone does not automatically imply knowledge of every aspect of that person’s private life or involvement in any alleged wrongdoing.

Addressing the matter further, he emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains the legally recognized institution responsible for investigating criminal allegations and that law enforcement agencies should be allowed to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without dragging innocent individuals into unrelated matters.

He reaffirmed his willingness to cooperate with security agencies whenever necessary, stating that he has consistently maintained a cordial working relationship with law enforcement authorities and would provide any lawful assistance required in the course of investigations.

Hamzat accused the individuals behind the publication of engaging in character assassination for political purposes, alleging that the objective was to create a false narrative around his political ambition and his aspiration to serve the people of Oyo State.

He urged members of the public to disregard the allegations, expressing confidence that residents of Oyo State would distinguish between verified facts and politically motivated propaganda.

The Accord Party governorship candidate further stated that he remains committed to his vision of building a better Oyo State and would not allow what he described as blackmail or coordinated smear campaigns to distract him from his political goals.

Hamzat reiterated that integrity, accountability, public service, and commitment to humanity remain the values that continue to define his personal and professional life.