REJOINDER TO THE UNFORTUNATE AND MISLEADING STATEMENT BY ALHAJI DAUDA AFOLABI OLOKUN

I have read with great concern the statement purportedly issued by Alhaji Dauda Afolabi Olokun concerning the political activities and disposition of Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, Member representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency.

Let it be stated clearly that the attempt to disparage the personality, integrity, and political standing of Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji through unsubstantiated allegations, insinuations, and politically-coloured language is unfortunate, unnecessary, and condemnable.

Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji is a duly elected representative of the people and has demonstrated commitment to their welfare, development, and progress. Her mandate is not defined by attendance at political meetings or by the opinions of individuals who disagree with her political decisions. Her legitimacy derives from the people who entrusted her with the responsibility of representing them.

It is therefore inappropriate for anyone to arrogate to themselves the authority to dictate to an elected representative how she must conduct her political affairs, or to threaten her political future because of perceived differences.

The reference to an alleged "scanty" meeting and the description of participants as "dissident, anti-party members" are nothing more than subjective political characterisations. Such language does not constitute evidence of wrongdoing, nor does it diminish the achievements or credibility of Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji.

We also reject the insinuation that Hon. Dr. Ayoola-Elegbeji is waging a "publicity war" against any political party. A public office holder has every legitimate right to engage with constituents, stakeholders, and members of the public, and to express views on matters affecting her political future and the people she represents.

What should concern the people are performance, accessibility, accountability, and the delivery of democratic dividends, not political intimidation or attempts to silence legitimate political expression.

Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji has consistently demonstrated that she is a people-oriented, accessible, and development-focused representative. Her interventions and legislative engagements speak for themselves. She has championed issues affecting infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, employment opportunities, roads, and power supply, and other areas of importance to the people of Ikenne, Sagamu, and Remo North.

Those who genuinely care about the political future of the constituency should concentrate on constructive engagement and the welfare of the people, rather than resorting to personal attacks, threats, insinuations, or attempts to dictate the political choices of an elected representative.

We strongly condemn the tone and content of Alhaji Dauda Afolabi Olokun's statement, and we particularly reject the attempt to portray Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji as a politician who is incapable of making independent decisions.

Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji is a woman of conviction, courage, and democratic credentials. She owes her primary responsibility to the people who elected her, and she should be allowed to exercise her constitutional and political rights without intimidation or unnecessary personal attacks.

Political disagreements are normal in a democracy, but character assassination, unfounded allegations, and political blackmail have no place in our political discourse.

Rather than attempting to dictate her political choices, Alhaji Dauda Afolabi Olokun and others should respect the mandate of the people and allow them to judge Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji based on her record, her integrity, and her service to the constituency.

Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji remains a good representative of her people, and no politically motivated statement can erase the impact of her service or diminish the confidence of those she represents.

Enough of these unnecessary political attacks. Let the people, not intimidation or political propaganda, have the final say.

Signed:

Concerned Constituents