Following reports that Shakiru Babatunde, a Special Assistant linked to the Osun State Government, allegedly staged his own kidnap in an attempt to obtain money from government officials, fresh details have emerged about his relationship with senior figures in the administration.
Here are 10 things to know about Babatunde and the circumstances surrounding the reported incident:
- He was reportedly adopted by the Governor’s Chief of Staff.Babatunde is said to have been taken under the care of the Chief of Staff to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, who reportedly played a significant role in his personal and professional development.
- He was appointed as an aide.Following his relationship with the Chief of Staff, Babatunde was reportedly appointed to serve as an aide within the Adeleke administration.
- He reportedly earns ₦370,000 monthly.Sources familiar with his appointment said Babatunde receives a monthly salary of approximately ₦370,000.
- He reportedly received a phone and ₦5 million after the election.The Chief of Staff was also said to have bought Babatunde a mobile phone and given him ₦5 million following the 2022 Osun State governorship election.
- His NYSC redeployment was reportedly facilitated.Sources also claimed that the Chief of Staff assisted Babatunde in securing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) redeployment, enabling him to undertake the programme in a preferred location.
- No evidence of alleged maltreatment has emerged.Despite the circumstances surrounding the alleged self-kidnap, sources familiar with his relationship with the Chief of Staff said there was no known evidence that Babatunde was being maltreated or deprived of support.
- He reportedly lives with the Chief of Staff.Babatunde is said to have been living with the Chief of Staff, while also maintaining access to a private apartment in Ede.
- The Chief of Staff reportedly introduced him to a woman.According to sources, Akinleye also introduced Babatunde to a woman, with the relationship reportedly progressing to the point where plans were being made to support their proposed marriage.
- Sources have accused him of greed.Some sources familiar with the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident have accused Babatunde of being motivated by greed. This remains an allegation and has not been independently established.
- He has reportedly been released.Babatunde has reportedly been released after his arrest, although the circumstances of his release and whether any formal charges were filed against him remain unclear.
