Broadcaster and Accord Party governorship candidate in Oyo State Oriyomi Hamzat has denied allegations linking him to police wanted suspect Surajudeen Babatunde, popularly known as Surii Ilupeju.
Mr Hamzat made the clarification in a statement issued on Sunday in response to claims circulating on social media connecting him with the suspect.
He said the publication was an attempt to damage his reputation and create a false narrative around his political ambition ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
“My attention has been drawn to a 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,” he said.
Hamzat said he had never sponsored, encouraged or supported anyone involved in criminal activity.
“Let me state clearly that I have never, at any time, sponsored, encouraged, shielded, or supported any individual involved in criminal activities,” he said.
The controversy followed a police operation carried out on June 12 when operatives of the Oyo State Police Command raided a residence in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan, said to belong to Ilupeju.
During the operation, five suspected armed robbers were arrested. Police said items recovered included firearms, ammunition and other materials.
The suspects were identified as Ahmed Nafiu, Olukunmi Olaniyi, Femi Odeyinde, Jelili Akinade and Muhideen Adio.
Following the raid, social media users circulated claims alleging an association between Hamzat and Ilupeju, prompting his response.
Reacting to the claims, Hamzat said having an employment, personal or social relationship with someone does not mean involvement in that person’s alleged actions.
“Employment, acquaintance, or social interaction with a person does not confer knowledge of, or complicity in, every aspect of that person’s private life,” he said.
He urged the public to allow security agencies to conduct investigations without dragging innocent people into criminal matters.
Oriyomi Hamzat also said he was ready to cooperate with law enforcement agencies if required.
He accused those behind the allegations of trying to score political points and insisted the claims would not affect his commitment to his political ambition ahead of the 2027 election.
