The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has commiserated with the people of Oke-Ode community in Ifelodun Local Government Area following the gruesome killing of 12 residents by suspected bandits on Sunday morning.
In a statement on Monday, the party’s state publicity secretary, Segun Adewara, described the attack as a “despicable and senseless act, and the height of man’s inhumanity to man.”
“The PDP condoles with the entire Oke-Ode community, particularly the bereaved families,” the statement read. “Our hearts are broken for the families and friends of those brutally killed and for the many now struggling in hospitals. The gruesome videos of the casualties circulating online make it look like Kwara is now at war.”
The PDP expressed concern that criminals appear to have overpowered the Kwara State Government and are “tactically taking over the state.”
The party criticised Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for what it described as a casual approach to the worsening insecurity.
“A responsible and responsive leader should personally visit Oke-Ode, stand with the mourners, and assure citizens of decisive action,” the PDP said.
“Sadly, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has chosen to focus his energy on attacking the opposition, particularly Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, rather than confronting the deepening insecurity ravaging the state.”
The party further alleged that under Governor Abdulrazaq’s watch, “terror is reigning, kidnappers are taking over rural villages, and nowhere is safe again.”
It accused the government of neglecting local vigilantes and security operatives “fighting criminals in the bush,” while spending heavily on entertainment and football events outside the state.
“What Kwara is experiencing today is unprecedented, unfortunate, and a monumental leadership failure,” the statement added.
While praying for the repose of the souls of those killed and wishing the injured a speedy recovery, the PDP urged the governor to “wake up from his slumber” and prioritise security over political squabbles.
“The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government, and any leader who fails in this duty has failed woefully in every other area of governance,” the statement concluded.
