Adesope distances OPC Reformed from kidnap suspects, seeks end to generalisation

The leader of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC Reformed), Adesope, has distanced his faction from individuals allegedly involved in the kidnap of the sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons, urging journalists and bloggers to conduct proper investigations before associating criminal activities with the entire OPC organisation.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding the kidnapping case, Adesope expressed concern over what he described as the indiscriminate labelling of all OPC groups as criminal organisations whenever suspects claim affiliation with the socio-cultural group.

According to him, the OPC is not a single, unified organisation but comprises several factions operating under different leadership structures, commands and codes of conduct.

He explained that the OPC Reformed faction focuses strictly on community security, cultural preservation and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, stressing that it does not engage in political thuggery, kidnapping or any form of criminal activity.

“Many bloggers throw caution to the wind by branding every OPC group as kidnappers without carrying out proper investigations. The individuals arrested in connection with the Adelabu family kidnap saga do not represent the OPC Reformed faction,” he stated.

Adesope noted that over the years, various OPC factions and independent splinter groups have emerged, operating autonomously from one another. He said the actions of one faction should not be used to judge all members of the organisation.

“The Oodua People’s Congress is far from being a monolithic body. When a criminal act is committed by individuals claiming to be OPC members, the public often fails to distinguish between the different factions. This creates a false impression and unfairly tarnishes the image of innocent members who have no connection with such activities,” he said.

Adesope further alleged that one of the suspects, identified as Wale Abolarinwa, popularly known as “Oloro”, is a member of the OPC Fasehun faction and serves as an area chairman in Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to him, Abolarinwa has allegedly been linked to organised criminal activities in Ibadan and is a familiar figure to law enforcement agencies over various alleged offences. He expressed concern that the leadership of the faction had allegedly failed to take disciplinary action against him despite the allegations.

“It is worrisome that such an individual is still associated with the organisation. The leadership of his faction should have taken steps to expel him long ago to protect its image and credibility,” Adesope said.

He further urged media practitioners and social media commentators to be specific when reporting incidents involving OPC members in order to ensure accurate public understanding.
Adesope also disclosed that prospective members of the OPC Reformed faction undergo thorough screening and background checks before recruitment, adding that the organisation maintains strict disciplinary standards.

He reiterated that criminality should be treated as an individual responsibility and not used to stigmatise an entire organisation or its numerous factions without verified evidence.