OFFICIAL PUBLIC STATEMENT

I wish to address a pressing matter that has garnered significant public attention recently, particularly relating to a publication by a blogger known as Esabod, purportedly supported and sponsored by certain parties. Additionally, there is a circulating video that depicts a protest orchestrated by Hammed Tajudeen and several others. During this protest, my business premises were subjected to vandalism, with numerous properties damaged, all under the misleading assertion that the ongoing matter is a land dispute between Mr. Hammed Tajudeen and myself.

I feel it is crucial to clarify, for the sake of transparency and historical record, that this situation is in no way associated with any real estate transaction or dispute involving land. I categorically affirm that I have never engaged in any form of land purchase, sale, or business dealings with Mr. Hammed Tajudeen.

The roots of this issue lie in the tragic and gruesome murders of Sherriff Agboworin and Prince Ademola Akinloye, which have been under investigation by law enforcement for the past three years and one year, respectively. While initial investigative efforts did not yield definitive results, renewed inquiries emerged following petitions from respected figures within the community and concerned citizens urging a revisit of the cases. Their calls were driven by a shared commitment to justice, fairness, and public safety.

Since the re-initiation of investigations, law enforcement has made significant progress, including arrests, and suspects have reportedly provided alarming confessions that implicate specific individuals in these heinous crimes.

It is deeply troubling that, instead of collaborating with law enforcement, some individuals have opted to sidestep lawful conduct by inciting public protests and directing aggressive actions toward my business. Such maneuvers not only disrupt operations but also misrepresent a grave criminal issue as a trivial land dispute. These actions appear to be calculated attempts to mislead the public and distract from the critical ongoing criminal investigation of national significance.

I must stress that this matter pertains solely to a murder investigation being conducted by appropriate law enforcement agencies. It does not fall within the domain of civil land disputes or personal grievances. It is imperative that anyone named in connection with this investigation promptly present themselves to the Nigerian Police to facilitate inquiries and exonerate themselves if they are innocent of the allegations.

Moreover, I implore all members of the media, including bloggers like Esabod, to adhere to the principles of responsible journalism. It is vital that they rigorously verify information through credible sources, including the families of the deceased and relevant community stakeholders, prior to disseminating or endorsing narratives that may misrepresent the truth.

The bereaved families and widows of the deceased have endured unimaginable grief. The victims left behind young children, grieving spouses, and elderly parents who deserve justice. It is essential that the legal process proceeds unimpeded by interference, intimidation, media sensationalism, or undue influence from political or institutional affiliations.

The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement actively pursuing leads, conducting interviews, and making arrests. The public is keenly observing these developments, highlighting the necessity of respecting due process to ensure that justice is neither obstructed nor compromised.

I urge all involved parties to uphold the rule of law. If anyone feels unjustly accused, the appropriate response should be to fully cooperate with the authorities rather than engaging in public demonstrations or actions that could jeopardize the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

This statement is issued in the interest of clarity, accountability, and the pursuit of justice. I will provide further updates as necessary regarding this serious matter.

Thank you.

Aare Bashir Olawale Fakorede