The ongoing tension between Senator Bukola Saraki and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has taken another turn, with the governor’s office issuing a statement urging the senator to refrain from dragging the governor into his self-inflicted controversies.
The statement, signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, criticises Saraki’s recent conduct, emphasising the governor’s commitment to maintaining decorum and inclusivity in his administration.
“He is not about to go low because of Senator Saraki’s provocative behaviour and intent to foul the atmosphere with his unstatesmanly conduct at public events.”
The statement highlighted Governor AbdulRazaq’s dedication to an inclusive political approach that addresses the needs of all citizens in the state, regardless of differences.
This commitment was exemplified during the Ilorin Eid praying ground event, where the governor extended a handshake to the former Senate President and other opposition politicians, demonstrating his statesmanship and willingness to bridge divides.
“Repeatedly, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has demonstrated his belief in politics without bitterness through his all-inclusive politics that addresses the needs of all citizens in the state, irrespective of any differences.
“In sustained demonstation of his statesmanship and large-heartedness, the Governor shook hands with the former Senate President and other opposition politicians at the Ilorin Eid praying ground.”
Reflecting on the governor’s electoral successes, the statement noted “Landslide victories of 2019 and 2023 elections in Kwara are clear testimonies of how the people of Kwara State have preferred the Governor to lead the state. He is thankful to God and to the people for the vote of confidence in his humble leadership.
It also addressed Saraki’s absence from the Ilorin Durbar since 2019, suggesting that his recent statements are filled with mischief and bad faith.
“Finally, to the best of our knowledge, Senator Saraki has never attended the Ilorin Durbar since 2019. His statement, therefore, reeks of mischief and bad faith, which we leave history to judge”.
Recall that earlier, Saraki had announced his decision to stay away from Ilorin annual Durbar festival this year 2024, in order to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and orderliness in the state and most importantly, due to his respect for the throne of Sheikh Alimi.
He disclosed this after he claimed that he was briefed that, “the government of AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq do not want him around the festival for their personal and political reasons”.
Chioma Kalu
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