Dr Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has dismissed as “mischievous and politically motivated” allegations by the Speaker of the Osun House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, linking the minister to recent violence in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Osogbo, Akinola described the claim as a “desperate and malicious attempt” to tarnish the minister’s reputation.
Akintola portrayed Oyetola as a statesman whose record in public office is untainted by violence or the sponsorship of thuggery.
Akinola further said Egbedun’s remarks were “reckless and unfounded,” questioning the Speaker’s judgement.
According to him, it is unreasonable to accuse Oyetola of involvement in violence, given his track record of promoting peace, stability and lawful conduct throughout his four-year tenure as governor of the state.
.Akinola also alleged that Egbedun had previously led thugs to disrupt a gathering organised by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), during which several individuals were assaulted and injured.
“We urge Egbedun and Gov. Ademola Adeleke to stop providing cover for criminal elements.
“That is the only way to preserve and sustain the peace Oyetola bequeathed to Osun State four years ago.
“How can a man who did not retaliate even when he was attacked during the EndSARS protests now be accused of orchestrating violence?
“Egbedun knows those with a history of deploying non-state actors and extrajudicial means to intimidate and attack perceived political opponents. Such conduct is completely alien to the minister’s character and values,” he said.
Akinola also condemned the killing of a teenager during the violence that occurred on Sunday, describing the incident as tragic and deeply regrettable.
He conveyed the minister’s condolences to the bereaved family and called on the police to ensure that those responsible are identified, apprehended and brought to justice, regardless of their status.
He stressed the need for justice and urged security agencies to act decisively to prevent a recurrence of violence in the state.
