A member of the House of Representatives, Davidson Akinlayo, has denied allegations linking him to suspected political thuggery ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election in Ekiti State, describing the claims as politically motivated attempts to damage his re-election bid.
The controversy followed the arrest of 11 suspected political thugs by the Ekiti State Police Command at Onikoyi Hotel in Ikun Ekiti, where dangerous weapons were allegedly recovered. Police sources reportedly linked the suspects to the federal lawmaker, who represents Moba/Ilejemeje/Ido-Osi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Reacting to the allegations in Ado-Ekiti, Akinlayo insisted that only two of the arrested persons are known to him, identifying them as members of his media team.
According to him, Boluwatife Ishola and Babatope Ibitola are media professionals without any criminal records, while the remaining suspects are neither from his constituency nor connected to his political campaign.
“I only know two people in that group, my Head of Media and assistant media aide. They are well-known media professionals and have never been involved in any criminal activity,” he stated.
The lawmaker further rejected claims that he sponsored armed individuals, arguing that the accusations lacked logic and were designed to tarnish his image ahead of the APC primary election.
Akinlayo also maintained that he had been financially independent before venturing into politics, citing investments in gas, filling stations, and real estate, while stressing that his philanthropic activities had earned him support across Ekiti State.
Addressing concerns over alleged intimidation and violence ahead of the primary, he accused political opponents of attempting to suppress voter participation and manipulate the electoral process.
He called on security agencies, including the Police, DSS, and Civil Defence, to ensure adequate security presence across all wards during the exercise.
“Let the Police, DSS, and Civil Defence be present at every ward. People should be allowed to vote freely without intimidation,” he said.
The lawmaker also alleged that his opponent had failed to engage in grassroots campaigns and was instead relying on political influence to sway the process.
He, however, expressed confidence in his popularity and urged supporters to participate actively in the primary election.Continue »
