Concerned Constituents have strongly rejected what they described as an “unfortunate and misleading” statement attributed to Alhaji Dauda Afolabi Olokun concerning the political activities and disposition of Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, Member representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
In a strongly worded rejoinder, the group condemned what it described as attempts to disparage the personality, integrity and political standing of Ayoola-Elegbeji through what it termed unsubstantiated allegations, insinuations and politically coloured language.
The constituents maintained that Ayoola-Elegbeji is a duly elected representative whose mandate comes from the people of Ikenne, Sagamu and Remo North, stressing that her legitimacy and responsibility to the constituency should not be measured by her attendance at political meetings or by the opinions of individuals who may disagree with her political decisions.
According to the group, political differences are normal in a democracy, but such differences should not be allowed to degenerate into personal attacks, intimidation or attempts to dictate the political choices of an elected public official.
The rejoinder specifically faulted the reference to an alleged “scanty” political meeting and the description of participants as “dissident” and “anti-party members.”
The constituents argued that such descriptions amounted to subjective political characterisation rather than evidence of wrongdoing.
They said, “Such language does not constitute evidence of wrongdoing, nor does it diminish the achievements or credibility of Hon. Dr. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji.”
The group also rejected the allegation that Ayoola-Elegbeji was engaged in a “publicity war” against any political party, insisting that as an elected public office holder, she has the legitimate right to interact with constituents, political stakeholders and members of the public.
They maintained that public officials should be judged principally by their performance, accessibility, accountability and contributions to the development of their constituencies rather than by their participation in particular political meetings.
The constituents further highlighted what they described as Ayoola-Elegbeji’s commitment to the people of the federal constituency, noting that her legislative and constituency engagements had focused on issues including infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, employment opportunities, roads and electricity.
They therefore urged political stakeholders within the constituency to channel their energy towards constructive engagement and the welfare of the people rather than personal attacks and political confrontation.
The group particularly took exception to any attempt to portray Ayoola-Elegbeji as incapable of making independent political decisions.
Describing her as “a woman of conviction, courage and democratic credentials,” the constituents said the federal lawmaker owes her primary responsibility to the people who elected her and should be allowed to exercise her constitutional and political rights without intimidation.
They stressed that disagreement within political circles should not be interpreted as disloyalty or misconduct, adding that political actors must learn to accommodate divergent opinions in the interest of democracy.
“Political disagreements are normal in a democracy, but character assassination, unfounded allegations and political blackmail have no place in our political discourse,” the group stated.
The constituents further called on Alhaji Dauda Afolabi Olokun and other political stakeholders to respect the mandate given to Ayoola-Elegbeji by the electorate and allow the people to independently assess her performance based on her record, integrity and service.
They insisted that the lawmaker's political decisions should not be subjected to unnecessary intimidation, saying the electorate remains the ultimate judge of her performance and political future.
The group concluded by reaffirming its confidence in Ayoola-Elegbeji, declaring that politically motivated statements would not erase what it described as the impact of her service to the constituency.
“Enough of these unnecessary political attacks. Let the people, not intimidation or political propaganda, have the final say,” the statement concluded.
Signed:
Concerned Constituents
