Ajaka Denies Links to Protest Against INEC

The 2023 governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in Kogi State, Alhaji Murtala Ajaka, has said he is not involved in the protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Ajaka called reports connecting him to the protest “false and misleading.”

In a statement from his Head of Media and Public Communications, Prince Tijani Dauda, shared with journalists in Lokoja on Wednesday, Ajaka made it clear that he did not authorise, sponsor, direct, commission, or coordinate the protest.

The statement responded to a publication by a group called “Igala Vanguard,” linked to someone named Lawrence, which suggested Ajaka was part of the demonstration.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka did not authorise, sponsor, direct, commission or coordinate the protest,” the statement said.

It added that linking independent citizens' actions to Ajaka was an effort to mislead the public and involve him in an issue he had no connection to.

Ajaka’s media aide also supported the right of citizens to protest peacefully. He stated that Igala youths do not need permission from any political figure to gather and voice their concerns about issues affecting their communities, representation, and future.

The statement questioned why citizens who choose to speak out about their issues should be tied to Ajaka.

It also accused unnamed individuals and groups of using fake names and identities to attack his character, manipulate politics, and spread unproven claims.

The statement warned these individuals to stop using Ajaka’s name for political tricks, blackmail, and creating false controversies.

“Anyone with allegations against Ajaka should come forward openly, using their real names and providing facts and evidence that can stand up to public scrutiny.”

The statement also made it clear that Ajaka respects the Chairman of INEC and the commission itself.

According to the statement, “Ajaka respects the constitutional responsibilities given to the INEC Chairman and believes the Commission will continue to perform its duties with fairness, professionalism, and respect for the law.”

The statement urged the public to ignore the false claims and to be cautious.