Former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has refuted claims by former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, regarding his alleged involvement in the unresolved assassination case of former Attorney – General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige.
Ladoja stated that he never obstructed justice in the murder case and had provided full support to the prosecution, even up to the Supreme Court.
Akande had recently sparked fresh controversy in an interview with veteran broadcaster, Edmund Obilo in Ibadan, where he suggested that Ladoja might have vital information about Bola Ige’s assassination.
He also lamented that key figures who could have provided insights, such as former Oyo State Governor Lam Adesina, had passed away.
In response, Ladoja dismissed Akande’s claims, insisting he did not know the case beyond publicly available information.
He warned that he would consider all possible actions, including legal steps unless Akande retracts his statement and issues a public apology.
He said : “Chief Bola Ige was assassinated December 23rd, 2001, I got to government on 29th of May, 2003 which was 18 months after the assassination of Chief Bola Ige.
“I didn’t withdraw the case, my government didn’t withdraw any case, the case was even prosecuted till apex court, Chief Akande lied against me, this is not the first time people said he lied, someone like Baba Adebanjo even said he lied in his book.
“We are not all happy as a result of Chief Bola Ige’s death, and we are all concerned about his death, I was very close to Chief Bola Ige while alive.
The recent allegations made by Chief Bisi Akande against Otun Olubadan Oba Rashidi Ladoja, former Governor of Oyo State, are unfounded and mischievous.
As Governor of Oyo State, Oba Ladoja demonstrated his commitment to justice and the rule of law.
He supported the investigation into Chief Bola Ige’s murder and ensured that the state government cooperated fully with the authorities.
It is essential to remember that Oba Ladoja became Governor of Oyo State 18 months after Chief Bola Ige’s murder.
His government did not withdraw the case. The Supreme Court decided the case on July 17, 2014.
Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s reputation as a respected leader and statesman has been built over many years of public service.
It is essential to be cautious of attempts to tarnish his reputation with unfounded allegations.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria’s judgment in the murder case of Chief Bola Ige, delivered on July 17, 2014, is a matter of public record.
It is essential to remember that Oba Ladoja became Governor of Oyo State 18 months after Chief Bola Ige’s murder.
His government did not withdraw any case. The case reached the Supreme Court, and judgment was given on July 17, 2014.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
