Investigative journalist and online editor at Within Nigeria, Sodiq Lawal Adewale, has responded to a police invitation following a petition by Hon. Kanmi Ajibola, a member of the Osun State House of Assembly representing the Oriade State Constituency. Ajibola accused Lawal and two others, Tunde Omole and Ogunsanya Olasunkanmi, of criminal defamation.
Lawal confirmed receiving a call from a police officer named Alao on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, summoning him to the Zone 11 Police Command in Osogbo.Â
In a press statement released on September 5, Lawal criticized the petition, describing it as an attempt to intimidate and suppress his role as a social critic.
“It is unfortunate that Hon. Ajibola, like many weak leaders, has resorted to using the police to intimidate those who speak out against his performance. My involvement in this matter was purely in response to the public outcry over the alleged underperformance of Hon. Ajibola,” Lawal said.
He emphasized that he has no personal or business relationship with Ajibola but acted in his capacity as a journalist and advocate for the people of Oriade.Â
Lawal, alongside other concerned citizens, had declared a three-day fasting and prayer session in June 2024, seeking divine intervention to improve Ajibola’s legislative performance.
“The people of Oriade are going through tough times. As a journalist and natural leader of the disadvantaged, I felt compelled to take action. When leaders fail, we turn to prayers, as is common in our culture. All we asked was for Hon. Ajibola to take his legislative duties seriously and be accountable to those who voted for him,” Lawal explained.
He also suggested that Ajibola pursue further training in leadership and representation to better engage with his constituents and meet their expectations.
The petition filed by Ajibola accuses Lawal and others of defamation for their public criticism.Â
Lawal, however, pointed out the irony, recalling that Ajibola had previously criticized past Osun State administrations, demanding better governance and transparency.
“Instead of appreciating the prayers and concern shown by his constituents, Hon. Ajibola has chosen to wage a legal war against those who only seek his success in office,” Lawal added.
Despite his criticisms, Lawal expressed his respect for the law and confirmed that he would honor the police invitation on Friday, September 6, 2024.Â
He urged the people of Oriade to remain calm and watch the process unfold, reassuring them that his actions have always been in the best interest of a better and more accountable Oriade constituency.
