Ekiti Political Figure Remanded on Serious Charges Weeks After Challenging Governor’s Candidacy

An Ekiti State Chief Magistrate Court has ordered the remand of a prominent political figure, Akogun Abayomi Olumide, in a correctional facility following grave criminal allegations. Olumide, widely known by the moniker “Lustay,” faces accusations including conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of offensive weapons, and malicious damage.

This development arrives just weeks after Olumide initiated a legal challenge against the political standing of the incumbent Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. He had filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja contesting the governor’s candidature.

The remand order was secured by police prosecutors, who applied for Olumide to be held pending the receipt of legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The court also sanctioned the remand of other individuals allegedly involved who are currently at large.

Details of the Allegations

Court documents reveal that Olumide is “reasonably suspected” of involvement in a series of violent attacks targeting several individuals. The named victims include Chief Sunday Adeola, Chief Joseph Falope, Kilani Oyebamiji, and Oloruntimileyin Akintunde, among others.

The police case, as outlined in an affidavit sworn by Inspector Ilori Tope of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Ado-Ekiti, states that Olumide was arrested on January 1, 2026, in connection with these alleged crimes.

Inspector Tope, the Investigating Police Officer, asserted that preliminary investigations have uncovered reasonable grounds linking the defendant to the offences.

Attached to the police application were statements from both the complainants and the suspect, as well as a standard police Form K.

“The defendant was arrested… in connection with a case of Conspiracy to commit Robbery, Armed Robbery, Attempted Murder… unlawful Possession of offensive weapon and malicious damage,” the affidavit reads. It further contends that remanding the suspect is “in the interest of justice” while the case proceeds.

The Defendant’s Vehement Denial

In a stark rebuttal, Akogun Olumide has categorically denied all charges against him. In a statement provided at the police station, he insisted he is not a robber and has no affiliation with any criminal gang.

He also specifically refuted allegations that he imported or hired armed thugs to assault political opponents within the state. Offering an alternative account of his recent activities, Olumide explained that on October 9, 2025, he traveled to Ado-Ekiti as part of the convoy of Engineer Kayode Ojo. Ojo was in the state to formally declare his governorship ambition at the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat.

“I never attempted to shoot anyone to death as alleged,” Olumide stated. He further claimed to have no knowledge of any alleged importation of individuals posing as police officers into Ekiti State.

Court’s Ruling and Next Steps

Granting the police’s ex parte motion dated January 2, 2026, the Chief Magistrate Court ordered Olumide’s temporary remand at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre.

The order is to remain in effect while police investigations are finalized and the DPP provides formal legal advice on the charges, which will determine if the case proceeds to trial.

The situation presents a complex intersection of legal prosecution and political rivalry, drawing significant public attention as the judicial process unfolds.