By Daud Olatunji
Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has responded to a viral video circulating on social media, clarifying the incident and reiterating his dedication to public service.
The video, recorded at the Egba Central praying ground in Lantoro, Abeokuta, during Eid prayers on Sunday, June 16, 2024, shows one of Senator Salisu’s security aides pushing a young man who appeared to be approaching the Senator.
In an official statement signed by Adetunji Adeteye, Head of SAS Media, on behalf of Senator Salisu, the Senator explained his perspective on the incident.
The statement emphasized that Senator Salisu was unaware of the event as it unfolded.
“The Senator, dressed in his agbada with his face covered in preparation for prayers, did not witness the interaction,” the statement read.
The statement described the security aide’s reaction as instinctive, aimed at protecting the Senator in what seemed to be a potentially threatening situation.
Despite this, Senator Salisu expressed deep regret over the incident and concern for the young man involved.
“Had he been aware of the situation at the moment, he would have intervened promptly,” the statement added.
Following the video’s circulation, Senator Salisu instructed his aides to check on the young man’s condition, confirming that he was unharmed and in good health.
Addressing the broader implications of the video, Adeteye noted attempts by some individuals to exploit the incident for malicious purposes.
Senator Salisu, recognized for his humility and dedication to public service, reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of all individuals, especially the vulnerable.
His team urged the public to view the 10-second video objectively, suggesting that an unbiased perspective would reveal the true nature of the incident and the motives behind the negative narrative being circulated.
Adeteye reiterated Senator Salisu’s resolve to continue serving the people of Ogun Central Senatorial District with humility and dedication.
He emphasized the Senator’s tradition of engaging warmly with the public and treating everyone with dignity, regardless of their social standing or background.
Below is the full text of the statement:
Senator Salisu Reacts to Viral Video: Clarifies Incident at Eid Prayer Ground
The attention of Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media. The 10-second video shows an incident involving a Senator’s security aide pushing a young man who had attempted to grab the Senator during the Eid prayers at the main arena of the Egba Central praying ground in Lantoro, Abeokuta, on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
Upon reviewing the short video, it will be clear to an objective viewer that:
1. Senator Salisu was completely unaware of the incident in the video as he was wearing his agbada, which covered his face when the few seconds incident happened.
2. The response of the security aide to the attempt by the young man to grab the Senator as he was set for Eid prayer was instinctively swift as would be expected of a security aide.
3. Upon learning about the incident from the video, Senator Salisu immediately instructed his aides to ensure the young man’s well-being. We are pleased to confirm that the young man suffered no injury from the incident and he is indeed fine.
We have noted, regrettably, that some mischief-makers are attempting to exploit the unfortunate incident for ulterior motives. Senator Salisu has always been a friend of the masses, known for his humility and dedication to serving the people. His record of modesty and his commitment to the welfare of the less privileged are well-documented. He has always been a champion for the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially those who are vulnerable. From his humble beginnings to his roles as Deputy Chief of Staff under the previous Administration in the state and as former Chief of Staff to the current Governor, Senator Salisu has consistently demonstrated his humane principles and concern for the common man.
We believe that an unbiased view of the 10-second video will confirm the true picture of the incident and the mischief behind the twisted viral narrative will become glaring.
Senator Salisu remains committed to his principles and continues to serve the people of Ogun Central Senatorial District with the same humility and dedication he has always shown. He has a long standing history of engaging warmly and positively with the public, regardless of social standing. This is second nature to him and he intends to keep it up.
