Popular broadcaster and Accord Party governorship candidate in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, has dismissed allegations linking him to a wanted suspect, Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju,” insisting that he has no involvement in any criminal activity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Hamzat described reports circulating on social media connecting him to the suspect as false and politically motivated, saying they were aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
According to him, he has never sponsored, protected or supported individuals involved in crime.
“I have never, at any time, sponsored, encouraged, shielded or supported anyone engaged in criminal activities. Throughout my public life as a broadcaster, humanitarian and governorship candidate, I have always stood for justice, truth and the rule of law,” he said.
The controversy followed a police operation carried out on June 12, 2026, when operatives of the Oyo State Police Command raided a residence in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan, reportedly linked to Ilupeju.
During the operation, five suspected armed robbers were arrested and firearms, ammunition and suspected charms were recovered. The suspects were identified as Ahmed Nafiu, Olukunmi Olaniyi, Femi Odeyinde, Jelili Akinade and Muhideen Adio.
Following the raid, claims emerged on social media suggesting that Ilupeju was an associate of Hamzat, prompting the broadcaster to issue a clarification.
Hamzat argued that having a personal, social or professional relationship with someone does not amount to knowledge of or involvement in that person’s alleged crimes.
“The attempt to hold me responsible for the actions of another individual simply because there may have been an association is both dishonest and illogical. Employment, acquaintance or social interaction does not mean one is aware of every aspect of a person’s private life,” he said.
He urged members of the public to allow security agencies to conduct their investigations without dragging innocent individuals into criminal matters.
The governorship hopeful also stated that he was ready to cooperate with law enforcement agencies if necessary.
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“I have always maintained a cordial relationship with security agencies. Should the police require any lawful assistance from me regarding any investigation, I will cooperate fully in the interest of justice and public safety,” he said.
Hamzat accused those behind the allegations of attempting to score political points through character assassination.
“Their intention is obvious — to create a false narrative around my person and my aspiration to serve the people of Oyo State,” he said.
He called on residents to disregard the allegations and assured them that no amount of blackmail or smear campaigns would derail his commitment to the development, security and welfare of the state.
The development comes as political activities continue to gather momentum in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
