ABEOKUTA — A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Chief Joju Fadiaro, has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that he endorsed the governorship ambition of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, ahead of the 2027 election.

Fadiaro, in a statement titled “Disclaimer: Setting the Record Straight,” described the report as false, misleading, and a deliberate distortion of facts intended to create a wrong impression among members of the public.

The APC elder statesman specifically denied claims that he made comments suggesting that no “foreigner” or “stranger” would be allowed to become governor or occupy sensitive political positions in Ogun State.

According to him, neither the photograph nor the report being circulated should be interpreted as an endorsement, declaration of support, or political alignment with Adebutu or any opposition political group.

He stressed that his interactions with political leaders across party lines should not be misconstrued as support for any aspirant or political party.

“Chief Joju Fadiaro remains a committed and loyal stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party to which he has consistently contributed his time, influence and credibility over the years. His unwavering dedication to the progressive ideals of the APC remains intact and unquestionable,” the statement read.

Fadiaro added that the publication was merely an attempt to mislead the public and create what he described as “false hope for the opposition.”

He urged APC members and supporters to disregard the speculation, insisting that his loyalty and political convictions remain firmly rooted in the ruling party.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Fadiaro was reacting to a social media post allegedly linked to supporters of Adebutu following a recent visit by the PDP governorship candidate to his private residence in Abeokuta.

The APC chieftain reportedly expressed disappointment over what he described as a fabricated account of the meeting, accusing Adebutu’s supporters of engaging in dirty politics by attributing statements to him that he never made.

According to him, the reports have generated numerous reactions and prompted several telephone calls from concerned associates seeking clarification.

“People can say anything. I never said such. I have received a series of telephone calls. Any reasonable person will not think like that. It was not true; it’s an issue of lies. How on earth at my level would I say that? I won’t allow anybody to soil my reputation. I am a decent person. The word ‘stranger’ never came from my mouth,” Fadiaro was quoted as saying.

The Asiwaju of Ifoland and Fiwagboye of Egbaland further condemned what he termed “dirty politics,” accusing some followers of Adebutu of concocting false statements and attributing them to him for political advantage.

He called on the PDP leader to caution his supporters and ensure that political engagements are conducted with honesty and respect.

Fadiaro reiterated that his commitment to the APC remains unwavering and urged political actors to focus on issue-based politics rather than misinformation and character attacks.

“Truth needs no embellishment; it only requires clarity,” he stated.