A member of the House of Representatives, James Abiodun Faleke, has dismissed as false a media report alleging that he was linked to a purported one-term governorship agreement in Kogi State.
Faleke, who represents Ikeja Federal Constituency in Lagos State, described the report as misleading and without any factual basis. He rejected the claim in a statement issued on his verified X account, formerly known as Twitter.
The lawmaker was reacting to a report published by an online platform, TrackNews, which alleged that the Presidency had directed former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and the current governor, Usman Ododo, to honour a one-term governorship arrangement in the state. The report further claimed that Faleke was involved in the alleged agreement.
In his response, Faleke categorically denied having any knowledge of, or involvement in, such an arrangement. He stated that the publication wrongly linked his name to an issue with which he had no connection.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I state unequivocally that I never had any discussion, nor was I privy to any conversation, arrangement, or agreement regarding a one-term deal in Kogi State or any related matter,” Faleke said.
He emphasized that at no time was he directly or indirectly involved in discussions concerning the governorship of Kogi State. According to him, the report was entirely fabricated and failed to reflect the truth.
Faleke explained that the publication generated widespread reactions across political and public circles. He said he received numerous calls and messages from individuals seeking clarification on the alleged agreement.
The volume of inquiries, he noted, made it necessary for him to issue a formal statement to address the matter and set the record straight. He stressed that silence could have allowed the false narrative to gain further traction.
Describing the report as irresponsible, Faleke urged members of the public to disregard it completely. He warned that unverified information of such nature could mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.
“The story is a fabrication and should be disregarded in its entirety,” the lawmaker said, advising readers to treat the report with caution.
He further criticized the publication for lacking credibility and failing to meet basic standards of journalism. According to him, the report did not rely on verified sources or factual evidence.
Faleke cautioned against the spread of unsubstantiated claims, especially those capable of affecting political stability and public perception. He stressed that misinformation could have serious consequences if left unchecked.
The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to transparency and honesty in public discourse. He said he remained focused on his legislative responsibilities and had no involvement in secret political arrangements.
Faleke also used the opportunity to call on media organizations and online platforms to uphold professional ethics. He urged journalists to verify claims thoroughly before publishing reports that could damage reputations.
He emphasized that responsible journalism plays a critical role in sustaining democracy and promoting informed public debate. According to him, accuracy and balance should always take precedence over sensationalism.
The denial comes amid heightened political interest in Kogi State following recent developments in its leadership. Political reports and commentaries about the state have continued to attract national attention.
Faleke’s statement seeks to distance him entirely from the alleged one-term governorship deal and reaffirm that he has no role in the matter. He maintained that any suggestion to the contrary is false and misleading.
As reactions continue, the lawmaker has made it clear that he expects the public to rely on verified information from credible sources. He stressed that false reports should not be allowed to shape political narratives or public opinion.
The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about the spread of unverified political reports in the digital media space. It also underscores the need for caution and accuracy in reporting sensitive political issues.
Faleke concluded by assuring the public that he remains committed to integrity and truth, while encouraging responsible communication in political reporting.
