Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru, the Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial district has issued a statement rejecting claims that he is undermining the votes and interests of the Igbomina people.
The lawmaker labeled the allegations as a deliberate attempt to misinterpret his intentions and create unnecessary division.
The controversy stems from a circulating video where the Senator allegedly claimed that 45% of Ibolo votes are required for any senatorial victory in the district, a statement that critics claim diminishes the Igbomina political bloc.
The statement, signed by Olaitan Adeyanju, Legislative Aide on Media & Community Relations and made available to 9japarrot media clarified the context of the remarks, stating that the statement
referenced in the video was made during the Offa Strategic Retreat, a forum aimed at mobilizing and encouraging the people of Offa to actively participate in politics and governance.
The remarks were specifically tailored to inspire political engagement among the people of Offa.
The statement also insisted that the Deputy Senate Leader is a champion of inclusivity, fairness, and the collective progress of all groups within Kwara South, including the Igbomina, Ibolo, and Ekiti communities.
The statement further pointed out that Senator Ashiru has never denied his roots, noting that his progenitors are migrants from Ajase-Ipo in Igbomina land.
The Senator remains committed to fostering unity and collaboration among all ethnic groups in Kwara South, believing that solidarity is the only path to sustainable development, Olaitan added.
“Any insinuation suggesting that Senator Ashiru is undermining the Igbomina people, as usual is politically motivated and entirely untrue,” the statement concluded.
She urged the public to disregard the misrepresentation and focus instead on his unwavering dedication to the progress and well-being of every constituent.