The chairman of GASTAB Petroleum, Alhaji Saheed Gbolahan, has described as a blackmail attempt statement circulating on social media that there was a kidnappers’ den behind one of his fuel stations.
According to Oba Mobil as he is fondly called by admirers within and outside Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the statement was an attempt to soil his hard-earned reputation and brand which has taken him many years to build.
“I was miffed when, this morning, I got information from some of my friends, about a message circulating on social media. It had been alleged that my brand, GASTAB, on the Lagos-Ibadan has behind it a kidnappers’ den. I first laughed it off when it was first forwarded to me but it became important to react when the calls became much.
“To start with – those who have been following me from way back would testify to how I got here. As a muslim, I know what the Quran says about those who derive joy in bringing people down. I have never been involved in an attempt to bring people down because I know it is only God who can bring people up.
“I wouldn’t know why something of that destructive nature would be directed at me. I don’t want to sound boastful; but I have, in my own little ways, been assisting people with what God has assisted me with.
“I have instructed my lawyers to investigate where the statement comes from and ensure the necessary actions are taken. I also like to advise the police to ensure the police swing into action and do all necessary findings. I challenge them to go to the said facility and investigate if something of such exists. I have more than 40 staff there and if there is such thing, it would have been exposed.
“I wouldn’t know if it is a sin to site my businesses in my hometown. It is so sad that our people are behaving this way. It is not good at all. Like I have said, my lawyers are working to unravel those behind the destructive statement and ensure they are made to face the law,” he explained.
