Jun 14, 2026

Oriyomi Hamzat Denies Any Tie to Armed Robbery Suspect

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Ibadan, Oyo State – June 14, 2026— Popular broadcaster and Accord Party gubernatorial candidate for Oyo State, Alhaji Oriyomi Abdulrahman Hamzat, has strongly denied any involvement or complicity in the alleged criminal activities of a police-wanted suspect, describing circulating claims as a “malicious and mischievous” attempt to tarnish his reputation ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a detailed press statement issued on Sunday, Hamzat addressed reports linking him to Surajudeen Adio Babatunde, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju,” whose residence in the Gbeku area of Olodo, Ibadan, was raided by the Oyo State Police Command on June 12, 2026.

Police arrested five suspected armed robbers at the location and recovered firearms, ammunition, and suspected criminal charms.

Hamzat categorically stated that he has “never, at any time, sponsored, encouraged, shielded, or supported any individual involved in criminal activities.”

He emphasised that mere acquaintance, employment, or social interaction with a person does not imply knowledge of or complicity in that individual’s private or alleged criminal conduct.

He described the attempt to drag his name into the matter as “illogical and dishonest,” accusing the authors of engaging in character assassination for political gain.

Hamzat noted that he has consistently stood for justice, truth, and the rule of law throughout his career as a broadcaster, humanitarian, and now as a political aspirant.

The candidate urged the public to disregard the “baseless attempt at guilt by association,” assuring Oyo people that no amount of blackmail or coordinated smear campaigns would distract him from his commitment to the welfare, security, and progress of the state.

He reaffirmed his willingness to cooperate fully with security agencies if lawfully required, stating he maintains a cordial relationship with them and has done so on numerous occasions in the interest of public safety.

Oriyomi Hamzat, founder and chairman of Agidigbo 88.7 FM in Ibadan, rose to prominence as a human rights activist and radio presenter known for his signature phrase “**Gbenu si mic” (**put the mic down).

He recently emerged as the consensus gubernatorial candidate of the Accord Party in Oyo State for the 2027 elections after a screening process that saw other aspirants disqualified.

The timing of the allegations coincides with his active political campaign, leading observers to view the development as part of opposition tactics to undermine his growing popularity.

Hamzat has a history of legal entanglements tied to his activism, including past arrests over comments on high-profile cases, which his supporters often cite as evidence of his fearless stance against injustice.

Reactions on social media have been mixed. Some supporters praised Hamzat for addressing the issue head-on and dismissed the claims as politically motivated propaganda.

Others expressed scepticism, referencing his past controversies and questioning his associations.

Critics have pointed to his high-profile role in public discourse, while allies argue that such smears are expected when a strong, independent voice enters partisan politics.

The Oyo State Police Command has not issued any statement directly linking Hamzat to the suspect or the recent raid.

The episode highlights the intense political environment in Oyo State as aspirants position themselves for the 2027 governorship race. Hamzat’s statement positions him as a victim of dirty politics while reinforcing his image as a defender of justice who remains unfazed by attacks.

He concluded by urging the public to focus on facts over propaganda and reiterated his dedication to building a better Oyo State based on integrity, accountability, and service.

The development is likely to dominate political discourse in the coming days, with both Hamzat’s camp and political observers watching closely for further developments from security agencies or opposing camps.