Kwara PDP governorship candidate denies links to viral ritual video
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State, Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu, has denied any connection to a viral video allegedly linking his 2027 governorship ambition to ritual activities, describing the claims as false and malicious.
The clarification follows the circulation of a video on social media in which Alhaji Saheed Ishola, popularly known as LogunOfe, was alleged to have made comments and engaged in activities purportedly connected to ritual sacrifice in relation to the 2027 governorship election.
The controversy comes after an earlier viral report alleged that some PDP supporters visited a shrine in Ogun State to pray for the death of individuals opposed to the political ambitions of former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Kawu.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his media office, Kawu distanced himself from the individual featured in the video and the alleged activities.
“The attention of the Media Office of the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Kwara State has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media in which one Alhaji Saheed Ishola, popularly known as LogunOfe, is alleged to have made comments and engaged in activities purportedly connected with ritual sacrifice in relation to the 2027 governorship election.
“Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu has no connection whatsoever with the said individual’s utterances or his alleged actions. Any attempt by anyone to associate the PDP governorship candidate with such conduct is false, mischievous and should be disregarded in its entirety.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Alhaji Saheed Ishola LogunOfe does not speak for, work for, represent or act on behalf of Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu or his campaign team in any capacity,” the statement said.
The media office further stated that Kawu had never authorised or approved anyone to make such statements or engage in such activities on his behalf.
“At no time has Engr. Kawu authorised, sanctioned or approved any individual to engage in activities or make statements of such nature in his name or in furtherance of his aspiration,” it added.
Reaffirming the PDP candidate’s religious beliefs, the statement described Kawu as a devoted Muslim who does not subscribe to ritual or fetish practices.
“Engr. Kawu is a devoted Muslim whose faith is firmly rooted in the absolute oneness and sovereignty of Almighty Allah. He neither associates partners with his Creator nor subscribes to any form of ritual, fetish or diabolical practice.
“As a believer, he places his trust entirely in Allah and accepts His divine decree, knowing that victory, honour and authority come only by His will,” the statement read.
The media office also maintained that Kawu’s governorship ambition is motivated by a desire to serve the people of Kwara State rather than desperation for political office.
It said his focus remains on restoring security, rebuilding public confidence, promoting prosperity and safeguarding the future of residents through purposeful and people-centred governance.
The statement urged members of the public to disregard attempts to associate Kawu or the PDP with the alleged ritual activities depicted in the viral video, insisting that those behind the claims were pursuing their own agenda.
It added that Kawu remains committed to a peaceful, issue-based campaign anchored on integrity, respect for the rule of law, faith in God and the democratic will of the people.
