Accord Party governorship candidate in Oyo State and popular broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat, has dismissed claims linking him to a wanted robbery suspect, Surajudeen Babatunde, popularly known as Surii Ilupeju.
In a statement released on Sunday, Hamzat described the allegations circulating on social media as a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation and undermine his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 Oyo governorship election.
He stated that he has never supported, protected, or encouraged any individual involved in criminal activities, stressing that his career as a broadcaster, humanitarian, and politician has always been guided by justice, truth, and respect for the law.
The controversy followed a recent police operation in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan, where officers reportedly raided a residence linked to Ilupeju. During the operation, five suspected armed robbers were arrested, while weapons, ammunition, and other items were recovered.
Following the arrests, social media reports allegedly attempted to associate Hamzat with the suspect. Reacting to the claims, he argued that knowing or employing someone does not automatically make a person responsible for that individual’s alleged criminal actions.
Hamzat urged the public to allow security agencies to carry out proper investigations without dragging innocent people into criminal matters for political reasons. He also expressed readiness to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities if required.
The Accord Party candidate accused his critics of engaging in character assassination to gain political advantage, insisting that no amount of blackmail or misinformation would distract him from his commitment to serving Oyo State.
He reaffirmed his dedication to integrity, accountability, and public service as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
