Former Ekiti Official Hospitalized in Prison, Supporters Allege Political Persecution

A former chairman of the Ekiti State Microcredit and Enterprise Development Agency, Akogun Abayomi Olumide, has been hospitalized at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre clinic, according to sources close to him.

Olumide, popularly known as Lustay and a former ally of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, was reportedly admitted due to deteriorating health, described as a diabetic condition. His supporters claim his detention is politically motivated and that his health needs are not being adequately met.

The former official was remanded in prison custody by a Chief Magistrate Court in January on charges including conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery, attempted murder, and unlawful possession of weapons. Olumide was dismissed from his post in August 2025 for alleged gross misconduct.

Following his removal, Olumide publicly accused the state administration of victimizing him for his political support of a rival figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engineer Kayode Ojo. He was arrested on January 1, 2026, and has denied all charges, calling them fabricated to silence him.

In a related development, Engineer Kayode Ojo petitioned the Inspector-General of Police earlier this month, alleging that the Ekiti State Police Command has been weaponized for political persecution against his supporters. The petition accuses specific police officers of conducting raids and making arrests on what it terms “phantom charges” to intimidate opposing political factions.

The petition calls for the withdrawal of charges against detained individuals, their immediate release, and the transfer of investigations to Abuja to ensure impartiality. It also criticizes the judiciary’s role, alleging the improper use of remand orders.

Governor Oyebanji’s administration has not publicly responded to these specific allegations. The situation highlights rising political tensions in Ekiti State as it approaches its gubernatorial election cycle.