By Taiwo Scholarstica
The governorship candidate of the Accord Party in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, has denied having any connection with a police wanted suspect, Surajudeen Babatunde, also known as “Surii Ilupeju.”
Hamzat, a popular broadcaster, made the clarification in a statement on Sunday following reports on social media linking him to the suspect.
He described the allegations as false and said they were part of a campaign to damage his reputation ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
According to him, he has never supported, protected, or encouraged anyone involved in criminal activities.
Hamzat said he has always stood for justice, truth, and the rule of law throughout his career as a broadcaster, humanitarian, and politician.
The controversy followed a police operation on June 12, during which officers raided a residence in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan, believed to be linked to Ilupeju.
During the operation, five suspected armed robbers were arrested, while firearms, ammunition, and suspected charms were recovered.
After the raid, social media posts allegedly linked Hamzat to the suspect, prompting his response.
The Accord Party candidate said it was wrong to hold him responsible for the alleged actions of another person simply because they may have known each other.
He urged the public to allow security agencies to carry out their investigations without involving innocent people for political or personal reasons.
Hamzat also said he was ready to cooperate fully with the police if required.
He accused those behind the allegations of trying to score political points and create a false impression about him and his political ambition.
The broadcaster called on Oyo residents to ignore the claims, insisting that he remains committed to serving the state and pursuing his governorship ambition.
He added that no amount of blackmail or false accusations would stop him from working for the welfare, security, and development of Oyo State.