Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has suspended his Senior Special Assistant on Print Media, Wale Ajetunmobi, over allegations of misrepresentation of facts on social media. This decision, announced in a statement on Tuesday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, underscores the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The suspension followed a controversial tweet by Ajetunmobi, using the handle #Riddwane, which claimed that arsonists responsible for the 2020 burning of the Television Continental (TVC) station in Lagos during the #EndSARS protests had been “hunted down and executed.” The tweet also included a shocking anecdote about a young boy allegedly found with an AK-47 at the site of the arson. Although the tweet was later deleted, screenshots circulated widely, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.

Government Stands Against Extra-Judicial Actions
In his statement, Akosile emphasized the Sanwo-Olu administration’s stance against extra-judicial actions, saying, “That is not who we are. That is not our way.” Ajetunmobi’s suspension reflects this principle, ensuring that public officials are held to the highest ethical standards in their communication.

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The controversy began after Premium Times reported Ajetunmobi’s tweet on November 24, where he claimed that most of the alleged arsonists had been killed following an exchange of fire with soldiers. Responding to criticism from other social media users, Ajetunmobi initially defended his statements, denying that they implied extra-judicial killings. However, he later clarified that the word “executed” was used erroneously and did not represent the position of the Lagos State government.

Repercussions of the 2020 TVC Attack
The 2020 attack on TVC left a lasting impact, with over 250 staff members unable to work and millions of naira in damages to the station’s facilities. Equipment, production studios, and operational vehicles were destroyed, forcing the station to operate in temporary accommodation. Governor Sanwo-Olu, during a visit to TVC after the incident, expressed his commitment to protecting state infrastructure and ensuring justice for the victims.

The fallout from Ajetunmobi’s remarks highlights the sensitive nature of the events surrounding the #EndSARS protests and the importance of responsible communication by public officials. While Ajetunmobi has issued a formal apology, his suspension serves as a reminder of the power and consequences of statements made on social media platforms.