The Oyo State House of Assembly has adopted the report of its Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which found Hon. Ibrahim Aremu Shittu, representing Saki West State Constituency, culpable over a viral video containing allegations deemed defamatory and harmful to the integrity of the Legislature.
Despite accepting the committee’s findings and recommendations, the House on Tuesday rejected the apology offered by Hon. Shittu and resolved to refer the matter back to the Ethics and Privileges Committee for further disciplinary action.
The investigation followed a resolution of the House on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, mandating the committee to probe the viral video. In the footage, Hon. Shittu was accused of alleging that the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Onaolapo (Ogbomoso South), received bribes from the Chairman of Saki West Local Government, while also making disparaging remarks about the Speaker and proceedings of the House.
Presenting the report, the Chairman of the Ethics and Privileges Committee, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola, disclosed that both Hon. Shittu and the Majority Leader appeared before the committee on Thursday, January 22, 2026. He said the committee examined relevant legislative instruments, oath of office documents and the viral video itself, noting that the investigation was conducted in line with due process and the principles of natural justice.
According to the report, the committee concluded that Hon. Shittu’s comments were reckless, baseless and capable of eroding public confidence in the Oyo State House of Assembly. It held that the allegations were not supported by credible evidence, violated the rights and privileges of the Majority Leader and brought the Legislature into disrepute.
Reacting to the report on the floor of the House, Hon. Shittu admitted that the statements he made in the viral video were reckless and unfounded, and that they were disparaging to the person of the Majority Leader.
During the debate that followed, lawmakers from both political parties expressed their views. Hon. Luqman Jimoh (Oorelope), speaking for the APC caucus to which Hon. Shittu belongs, tendered an apology on behalf of the party and appealed to the House to temper justice with mercy. Similarly, Hon. Sola Owolabi (PDP) urged the lawmakers to show leniency.
However, several members faulted the apology offered by Hon. Shittu, describing it as insincere and devoid of genuine remorse. A motion was consequently moved to reject the apology, which was duly seconded.
Ruling on the motion after deliberations, the Speaker declared the apology inadequate and lacking genuine contrition, and therefore rejected it.
The House subsequently resolved to refer the matter back to the Ethics and Privileges Committee to make further recommendations on appropriate disciplinary measures.
In its report, the committee also warned members against making unverified public allegations capable of damaging the image and credibility of the Legislature, stressing that any future violations would attract stringent disciplinary sanctions.
