Popular broadcaster and Accord Party governorship candidate in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, has rejected allegations linking him to a wanted robbery suspect, insisting that attempts to associate him with the individual are part of a calculated smear campaign aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Hamzat made the clarification in a statement issued on Sunday following the circulation of social media posts alleging a connection between him and Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju,” who recently came under police investigation.
The media entrepreneur and politician described the claims as false, malicious and politically motivated, arguing that they were designed to create a misleading narrative around his public image and growing political profile in Oyo State.
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“My attention has been drawn to a malicious and mischievous publication circulating on social media seeking to drag my name into a criminal matter involving an individual identified as Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as ‘Surii Ilupeju’,” Hamzat said.
“Because of the potential for misinformation and the need to set the records straight, it has become necessary to address the falsehoods being peddled by those determined to tarnish my hard-earned reputation.”
The controversy follows a police operation carried out on June 12, 2026, by operatives of the Oyo State Police Command in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan.
According to reports from the police operation, officers raided a residence linked to Ilupeju following intelligence reports suggesting criminal activities in the area. During the operation, five suspected armed robbers were arrested and weapons, ammunition and suspected criminal charms were reportedly recovered.
The suspects were identified as Ahmed Nafiu, Olukunmi Olaniyi, Femi Odeyinde, Jelili Akinade and Muhideen Adio.
Following the raid, social media users began sharing posts alleging that Ilupeju had ties to Hamzat, claims that prompted the broadcaster’s public response.
Hamzat maintained that he has never sponsored, encouraged or protected individuals involved in criminal activities.
“Let me state categorically that I have never, at any time, sponsored, encouraged, shielded or supported any individual involved in criminal activities,” he said.
“Throughout my public life as a broadcaster, humanitarian and now gubernatorial candidate of the Accord Party, I have consistently stood on the side of justice, truth and the rule of law.”
The governorship hopeful argued that acquaintance, employment or social interaction with a person does not automatically translate into knowledge of every aspect of that person’s private conduct.
He said efforts to hold him responsible for the alleged actions of another individual were dishonest and lacked logical basis.
Hamzat also urged residents to allow security agencies to carry out investigations without dragging innocent persons into criminal matters for political advantage.
According to him, only the Nigeria Police Force possesses the legal authority to investigate allegations and establish culpability.
He further pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies should his assistance be required at any stage of the investigation.
“I have always maintained a cordial and cooperative relationship with security agencies. Should the police require any lawful assistance from me regarding any investigation, I will not hesitate to cooperate fully,” he stated.
The development comes as political activities continue to gather momentum in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major parties and aspirants already positioning themselves for what is expected to be a fiercely contested governorship race.
Political observers note that social media has increasingly become a battleground for narratives and counter-narratives, making fact-checking and official statements crucial during election cycles.
Hamzat insisted that the allegations would not distract him from his political ambition or commitment to public service.
“No amount of blackmail, false accusations or coordinated smear campaigns will distract me from my commitment to the welfare, security and progress of our dear state,” he said.
