We won’t allow disrespect of deputy governor in our domain – Ogun House of Rep fumes
Hon. Tunji Akinosi, the representative for Ado-Odo Ota Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, has vehemently denied allegations of assaulting a police officer during the 2023 Iganmode Day celebration in Ota over the weekend.
A viral video circulating on social media purportedly shows Akinosi in a confrontation with a police officer identified as M. Yusuf, alleged to be part of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s security team. In response to the video, Akinosi clarified that the clip was misleading and manipulated to tarnish his reputation.
The incident reportedly occurred during the cultural event attended by prominent figures, including Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), and Akinosi himself.
Akinosi’s media aide, Joel Okeodebija, released a statement addressing the allegations, emphasizing that the altercation was provoked by the police officer’s disrespectful behavior towards the Ogun State Deputy Governor.
According to the statement, Akinosi stated, “Fake news merchants are at work again. Sadly, this time, their victim is Honourable Tunji Akinosi.” The statement described the video as “fake and abridged to suit the narrative of those he called political opponents.”
Akinosi clarified that the police officer, M. Yusuf, who allegedly serves as the commander of Senator Yayi’s security team, disrespected the Deputy Governor by questioning her identity. Akinosi claimed that the officer’s rude conduct had previously led to altercations with members of the Deputy Governor’s team.
The statement further explained that Akinosi’s interaction with the officer was intended to mediate, but the officer’s rudeness and derogatory statements escalated the situation. Akinosi emphasized that the alleged assault accusations were an attempt to smear his reputation ahead of upcoming political activities in Ogun State.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Ogun State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, were unsuccessful as she did not respond to text messages or answer phone calls.
The controversy surrounding the incident continues to unfold as stakeholders await further developments and clarifications from relevant authorities.