Deputy council leader denies 'categorically untrue' claims he gave Rochdale grooming gang leader reference

The deputy leader of Oldham council has denied claims he provided a reference to notorious Rochdale grooming gang ringleader Shabir Ahmed, branding them ‘categorically untrue’.

Ahmed, and his links to Oldham and the council were investigated as part of the recently published review looking into child sexual exploitation in the borough, which uncovered ‘serious failures’ in how authorities dealt with the predator. At a chaotic meeting of the full council on Wednesday night, Councillor Abdul Jabbar addressed allegations directed at him amid shouts and heckles from the public gallery.

A public question, submitted by Christopher Badderly, stated: “I would like to know the name the person who supplied Shabir Ahmed, convicted of CSE in Rochdale, with a character reference. I have been informed that the person responsible is a current Labour councillor. Is this correct?”

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In response council leader Amanda Chadderton said: “I have checked within the council and we have no record of anybody giving a reference to Shabir Ahmed. However I know there are allegations online and an allegation made in this chamber a couple of weeks ago and tonight that Councillor Jabbar may have given a reference to this individual, so he would like to respond himself.”

Coun Jabbar, who has represented Coldhurst ward since 2008, said: “I know there are malicious and untrue allegations circulating online about me apparently providing a reference for disgraceful rapist Shabir Ahmed. It is alleged I have given him a reference for a court appearance when he was accused of a horrendous act of child abuse. These allegations are categorically untrue.

“I was