Offa Robbery: Amule tackles Kwara govt, says timing of move suspicious

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and aspirant for the Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency seat, Hon. Bashir Olayinka Amule, has faulted the decision of the Kwara State Government to revive legal actions linked to the 2018 Offa robbery incident.

Amule, in a statement issued on Saturday, described the move by the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as insensitive and politically motivated.

According to him, the development further exposes what he called the governor’s lack of inclusive leadership, a situation he said had contributed to the exit of many key figures who championed the “O to ge” movement from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

He said the style of politics being played in the state was not one he was familiar with, alleging that it is now driven by bitterness, vendetta and unhealthy rivalry.

“This is not the politics we know,” Amule said, warning against actions capable of deepening divisions within the polity.

The PDP stalwart noted that issues of such magnitude, especially one that left many families in pain, should be handled with caution, empathy and a strong sense of responsibility.

He argued that revisiting the case at this time was ill-timed and appeared to be influenced by personal and political interests rather than the pursuit of justice.

Amule also accused the state government of misplaced priorities, citing the growing insecurity in parts of Kwara State.

He specifically mentioned communities such as Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area, where he said residents are facing increasing cases of kidnapping and unrest.

He questioned why the government would focus on reopening a matter that had already gone through the judicial process instead of strengthening efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

According to him, the courts had already dealt with the Offa robbery case, with those found culpable convicted, while former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, was discharged and acquitted of all allegations.

He therefore questioned the rationale behind revisiting the issue, particularly at a politically sensitive period.

Amule further alleged that the repeated resurfacing of the case during election build-up periods appears aimed at discrediting the PDP and its leadership.

He, however, said the people of Kwara State are aware of such political tactics and would make their position known at the polls in the 2027 general elections.

The aspirant urged the AbdulRazaq-led government to concentrate on governance that prioritises the safety, welfare and unity of the people rather than actions that could reopen old wounds.

He also extended condolences to families of the victims of the Offa robbery incident, assuring them of his solidarity and praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased.