“I Have Never Held a Gun in My Life” — Surri Ilupeju Breaks Silence After Being Linked to Political Controversy
Surajudeen Adio, popularly known as Surri Ilupeju, has publicly broken his silence following the controversy surrounding his arrest and the political allegations that have trailed him in recent weeks.
In an emotional appeal, Surri Ilupeju denied all allegations connecting him to armed robbery or the ownership of firearms allegedly recovered during the police operation that led to his arrest. He insisted that he is innocent and claimed that the weapons displayed by security operatives did not belong to him.
Speaking while pleading for justice, he said:
«“I’m not an armed robber. I have never held a gun before in my life. I’m not the owner of those guns. Police brought them to implicate me. I’m a transporter, I have never committed any crime.”»
The visibly emotional transporter also appealed to Nigerians, human rights advocates and relevant authorities to investigate his case thoroughly, maintaining that he has never been involved in any criminal activity throughout his life.
Surri Ilupeju's case has generated significant public attention after he became the subject of intense political debate in Oyo State. Supporters and critics have continued to express differing opinions over the circumstances surrounding his arrest, with some alleging that he was unfairly associated with political interests, while others have urged security agencies to allow the legal process to take its course.
The controversy escalated after security operatives reportedly recovered firearms during an operation linked to his residence. However, Surri Ilupeju has consistently denied ownership of the weapons, insisting they were planted to falsely implicate him. His statement adds another layer to a matter that has remained a major talking point across social media and political circles in Oyo State.
The allegations also sparked widespread reactions because of earlier claims linking him to the administration of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. Several commentators and political stakeholders have argued that the matter has taken on political dimensions, although no court has determined that the allegations against Surri Ilupeju were politically motivated.
Meanwhile, supporters of Surri Ilupeju continue to insist that he should be treated fairly under the law and afforded the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court. They have called for an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and the evidence presented against him.
As public interest in the case continues to grow, observers say the eventual outcome of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings will be crucial in determining the facts. For now, Surri Ilupeju maintains that he is innocent, describing himself simply as a transporter who has never handled firearms or participated in any criminal enterprise.
His emotional declaration has reignited debate online, with many Nigerians calling for transparency, accountability and due process, while awaiting the conclusions of law enforcement authorities and, where applicable, the courts.
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