Fayose to Falana: I never shielded criminals..

Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has denied the allegation from Lagos lawyer Femi Falana that he is providing official cover for armed gangs to operate in the state. 

Fayose, who described the allegation as “hypocritical, ridiculous and nonsensical”, said Falana’s statement was made out of malice to tarnish his image. 

He urged Ekiti people and other Nigerians to ignore the rights activist. 

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, Fayose said Falana was yet to recover from the defeat he (Falana) suffered in the 2003 governorship election when he contested on the platform of the National Conscience Party (NCP).

The governor urged Falana to mind his business and stop being pretentious and acting as a “public defender”. 

Fayose said: “Falana should be ignored because he is fond of beating about the bush. 

“I have never and will never provide official cover for armed gangs. It is only an unpopular or unloved governor or leader who would adopt such unconventional means to rule.” 

The governor said the love shown to him by the people was further demonstrated in the last general elections by the pattern on which they voted for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). 

He added: “Nigerians need to be told that Falana is yet to recover from the humiliating defeat he suffered in 2003 as the NCP governorship candidate. Since then he has not stopped plotting evil.”