Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq has firmly rejected calls from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urging President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state. The PDP made the demand following allegations linking state officials to criminal elements.

PDP’s Grave Allegations

During a press conference in Ilorin, PDP State Secretary Abdulrahman Kayode presented what he described as “disturbing” video evidence. The footage allegedly showed suspects claiming they received AK-47 rifles and a government-branded patrol vehicle from Kwara officials. Kayode warned these claims could erode public trust and worsen security if uninvestigated.

The PDP linked the allegations to recent violent attacks across Kwara’s local government areas. These include Ifelodun, Patigi, Edu, Ekiti, Isin, and Irepodun. Particular focus was placed on the September 28 Oke-Ode attack in Ifelodun LGA where over 15 fatalities occurred. The PDP noted that government agents reportedly disarmed local hunters shortly before the assault.

Government’s Forceful Rebuttal

Governor Abdulrazaq’s administration categorically denied all allegations. Senior Special Assistant on Communications Ibraheem Abdullateef dismissed the PDP’s call as “baseless political theatrics” ahead of the 2027 elections. “This is fake news weaponized to create panic,” Abdullateef stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to security.

Kwara’s Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju, provided specific rebuttals. She confirmed no bandits were arrested in Ifelodun or elsewhere by security forces. Olukoju emphasized that state governments lack authority to issue AK-47 rifles. “Security remains our top priority. We have no connection to criminal activities,” she declared.