The Oyo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed allegations by the All Progressives Congress (APC) that loyalists of Governor Seyi Makinde are plotting to victimize Hon. Ibrahim Shittu, a member of the APC representing Saki West State Constituency.
In a statement signed by Hon. Waheed Akintayo, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Media, Public Affairs and ICT, the PDP said the APC’s statement was nothing but a baseless attempt to blackmail the Oyo State House of Assembly and distract from the truth.
According to the PDP, it is imperative to set the record straight for the people of Oyo State.
“As a responsible legislative institution with a consistent track record of peaceful and orderly conduct since 2019, we find it both laughable and regrettable that the Oyo APC would descend to such depths of desperation,” the statement read.
“It is characteristic of their political playbook, one that has become commonplace in APC-controlled states, to fabricate claims of thuggery and intimidation. The suggestion that thugs are being mobilised against Hon. Shittu ahead of the resumption of plenary is not only absurd but a reflection of the APC’s own tendencies, not ours.”
The party stressed that its commitment to peace does not weaken the Assembly’s constitutional powers to discipline members who violate standing rules and regulations.
It further accused the APC of politicising the already clarified N300 billion loan facility approved by the Oyo State Government.
“Contrary to their misleading narrative, the approval process was transparent, diligent, and in full compliance with established legislative procedures. The emergency sitting at which the loan was approved was convened because the facility was deemed not only essential but also urgent and expedient for the infrastructural and socio-economic development of the state,” it added.
The PDP insisted there is no plot, real or imagined, to victimise Hon. Ibrahim Shittu or any other lawmaker.
“These allegations are not only false but have been amplified in bad faith for political gains. They represent a disservice to the legislative arm of government and an insult to the intelligence of the good people of Oyo State,” it stated.
The party also accused the APC of playing double standards, pointing out that the opposition remained “silent or complicit” when similar disciplinary actions were taken at the national level.
“We call on the APC to desist from peddling unfounded claims and fear-mongering tactics that serve only to stoke unnecessary tension. Rather than indulging in political theatrics, the opposition should embrace constructive criticism free from the double standards that see them remain silent or complicit when similar disciplinary actions are taken at the national level,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its focus, the PDP concluded:
“As a responsible legislative body, we will not be distracted by fabricated claims and false narratives. Our focus remains steadfast: to support policies and initiatives that uplift the lives of the people of Oyo State and advance the development of our beloved state.”
