Popular broadcaster, humanitarian, and Accord Party gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, has strongly denied allegations linking him to an individual identified as Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as "Surii Ilupeju," describing the claims circulating on social media as malicious, misleading, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on June 14, 2026, Hamzat said his attention had been drawn to what he described as a mischievous publication aimed at dragging his name into a criminal matter involving the said individual. He expressed concern over the spread of what he called deliberate misinformation designed to damage his reputation and undermine his political aspirations.
According to Hamzat, he would ordinarily have ignored the allegations, but the widespread circulation of the publication and its potential to mislead members of the public made it necessary for him to respond and set the record straight.
The Accord governorship candidate categorically rejected any suggestion that he had ever sponsored, encouraged, shielded, or supported any individual involved in criminal activities. He emphasized that throughout his years in public service—as a media professional, broadcaster, philanthropist, and now a political leader—he has consistently stood for justice, truth, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Hamzat further argued that attempts to hold him responsible for the alleged actions of another individual solely because of a past association were both illogical and unfair. He noted that employment relationships, casual acquaintances, or social interactions do not automatically imply knowledge of every aspect of a person's private activities.
He stressed that no individual should be subjected to public condemnation through guilt by association, particularly in matters that remain the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to investigate.
The media entrepreneur also expressed confidence in the professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, stating that they possess established procedures for investigating criminal allegations and determining culpability.
According to him, whenever an individual is declared wanted or becomes the subject of a criminal investigation, the proper approach is to allow law enforcement authorities to carry out their constitutional duties without interference or attempts to politicize the process.
Hamzat reaffirmed his willingness to cooperate with security agencies whenever necessary, noting that he has always maintained a cordial and constructive relationship with law enforcement institutions.
He stated that should any lawful request for assistance arise in connection with any ongoing investigation, he would provide full cooperation in the interest of justice, public safety, and due process.
The gubernatorial hopeful accused the authors of the publication of engaging in character assassination rather than presenting verifiable facts. He alleged that the objective of the publication was to create a false narrative around his personality and political ambition ahead of future electoral contests in Oyo State.
According to Hamzat, the allegations represent yet another attempt to score cheap political points through blackmail, misinformation, and coordinated attacks on his reputation.
He therefore called on residents of Oyo State and members of the public to disregard what he described as a baseless campaign of falsehood and propaganda.
Expressing confidence in the judgment of the people of Oyo State, Hamzat said citizens are capable of distinguishing between verified facts and politically motivated narratives.
He maintained that no amount of smear campaigns, false accusations, or attempts at intimidation would distract him from his commitment to serving the people and contributing to the development of the state.
Reiterating his vision for Oyo State, Hamzat said he remains focused on promoting good governance, improving security, enhancing social welfare, and advancing policies that will improve the quality of life for residents.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the principles that have guided his public life over the years—integrity, accountability, transparency, and service to humanity—while pledging to continue pursuing his aspiration of building a better future for the people of Oyo State.
The statement was signed by Oriyomi Hamzat, Accord Party Governorship Candidate for Oyo State, and dated June 14, 2026.
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