In a shocking and unsettling revelation, Babalola Sufian Ashorobi, the son of prominent Lagos PDP figure Mr. Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi, is at the center of a burgeoning financial scandal that threatens to shake the foundations of both the political elite and the Nigerian financial system.
This scandal has sent shockwaves through the community, as Babalola Ashorobi, known for his social prominence and political connections, is suspected of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that defrauded Mr. Abiodun Olapeju of a staggering $523,327.57 US Dollars through his company, 27th & 4th Limited.
What makes this scandal even more disconcerting is the close association between Babalola Ashorobi’s father, Mr. Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the PDP Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections. This nexus of political affiliations and elite connections has raised concerns about the possibility of high-level intervention to sweep this crime under the carpet.
The alleged modus operandi was as audacious as it was cunning. Babalola Ashorobi, who is no stranger to the corridors of power, presented himself as a representative of a well-respected financial organization licensed to conduct currency trading.
Under this guise, he received a substantial sum of approximately N450 million on behalf of Mr. Abiodun Olapeju, assuring him of a swift currency exchange. However, as soon as the funds changed hands, Babalola Ashorobi vanished, leaving his partner in this alleged crime, Miss. Samait Abimbola Are, to grapple with the fallout.
This incident has once again highlighted the gaping chasm between the political elite and the justice system in Nigeria. Many fear that Babalola Ashorobi’s influential
connections may be leveraged to evade the long arm of the law. This disturbing trend of political interference in legal matters has eroded public trust in the Nigerian justice system, reinforcing the perception that justice is often elusive for the common citizen.
In light of these developments, it is imperative that justice is not only served but also seen to be served.
Babalola Ashorobi’s social status and political affiliations should not grant him immunity from accountability. The Nigerian Police Force, alongside the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), must demonstrate their commitment to upholding the rule of law, regardless of the perpetrator’s status.
This case serves as a stark reminder that crime knows no boundaries and that individuals in positions of power must be held accountable for their actions. While the story of Babalola Ashorobi is undoubtedly disheartening, it is also an
opportunity for the Nigerian justice system to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to fairness and impartiality. Only through such actions can we hope to restore public faith in the institutions entrusted with upholding the law.