The recent suspension of Wale Ajetunmobi, Senior Special Assistant on Print Media to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sparked widespread discussions.
Who is Wale Ajetunmobi?
Wale Ajetunmobi served as a key media aide to Governor Sanwo-Olu, specializing in managing the state’s print media communications. He was responsible for crafting narratives representing the Lagos State government, addressing issues, and countering misinformation.
While detailed records of his educational background are scarce, Ajetunmobi has built a journalism and public relations career, which paved the way for his appointment within the Sanwo-Olu administration.
What Led to His Suspension?
On November 26, 2024, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the suspension of Ajetunmobi following a controversial post on his personal X (formerly Twitter) account. In the now-deleted post, Ajetunmobi wrote that individuals responsible for burning down Television Continental (TVC) during the 2020 #EndSARS protests were “hunted down and executed.”
This comment, which many interpreted as a justification for extrajudicial killings, ignited public outrage. Critics questioned the accuracy of the claim and expressed concern over its implications.
The Governor’s Response
The Lagos State government quickly distanced itself from Ajetunmobi’s remarks. Gbenga Akosile, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, released a statement emphasizing the administration’s commitment to justice and the rule of law. The statement highlighted that the administration does not condone extrajudicial actions.
Ajetunmobi’s Defense
In the wake of backlash, Ajetunmobi attempted to clarify his position, suggesting that the alleged executions occurred during an exchange of gunfire with soldiers. However, this claim was disputed, as no official reports of such confrontations exist from the incident at TVC during the protests.
The #EndSARS Context
The #EndSARS protests of 2020 remain a sensitive subject in Nigeria, symbolizing youth resistance against police brutality and government oppression. One of the pivotal moments during the protests was the alleged military shooting at unarmed protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate on October 20, 2020.
The TVC arson occurred a day later, with no verified accounts of confrontations involving soldiers. This context has fueled skepticism toward Ajetunmobi’s claims, further intensifying the backlash against his post.
This story continues to develop as more details emerge. Some have praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s actions as a firm stance against misinformation, while others argue they reflect deeper challenges within government communication strategies.
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