Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has dismissed allegations linking the minister to the recent political violence in Osun State, describing them as malicious, baseless and politically motivated.

Akinola, who signed the statement, said the allegation by the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, was a calculated attempt to tarnish the reputation of Oyetola, whom he described as a statesman with no record of violence or sponsorship of thuggery.

He said the Speaker’s comments were reckless and unfounded, adding that they raised serious concerns about his judgement.

“For making such a malicious and irresponsible allegation, Egbedun needs to have his head thoroughly examined to ascertain his mental state,” Akinola said.

According to him, only a person lacking sound judgement could accuse Oyetola of involvement in violence, considering the former governor’s record of promoting peace, stability and lawful conduct during his administration in Osun State.

Akinola alleged that Egbedun had previously led thugs to disrupt a gathering organised by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, during which several persons were reportedly assaulted and injured.

He also accused Egbedun and Governor Ademola Adeleke of providing cover for criminal elements in the state, urging them to take decisive steps to preserve peace and security.

“We urge both Egbedun and Governor Ademola Adeleke to stop providing cover for criminal elements. That is the only way to preserve and sustain the peace that Oyetola bequeathed to Osun State four years ago,” he said.

Akinola further queried how Oyetola, who he said did not retaliate when he was attacked during the EndSARS protests, could be accused of orchestrating violence.

He said the minister had consistently demonstrated commitment to peaceful politics and lawful conduct, stressing that the use of non-state actors and extrajudicial means against political opponents was alien to Oyetola’s character and values.

The minister’s aide, however, condemned the killing of a teenager during the violence that occurred in the state over the weekend, describing the incident as tragic and deeply regrettable.

He conveyed Oyetola’s condolences to the bereaved family and called on the Nigeria Police Force to identify, arrest and prosecute all those responsible for the crime, irrespective of their political or social status.

Akinola urged security agencies to act decisively to prevent a recurrence of violence in Osun State, insisting that justice must be served.