The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State has denied allegations by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is plotting to prosecute former Senate President Bukola Saraki over the 2018 Offa heist.
Mr Abdulwaheed Balogun, the APC Secretary in Kwara, told a news conference in Ilorin on Saturday that the charge was “melodramatic” and without merit.
Balogun stated that the party felt compelled to reply to the trending misinformation in order to clarify the situation and dispel popular misconceptions.
“The APC has been alerted to a statement issued by the PDP and Saraki accusing Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of preparing to file charges against Saraki and three others in connection with the 2018 Offa armed robbery incident, which claimed the lives of over 30 persons.
“Neither Saraki nor the PDP should be concerned if they have no culpability,” Balogun added, emphasising that courts depend on evidence and facts rather than public pronouncements.
He stated that rather than resorting to personal assaults, the accused in the case should stand trial and let the court to establish guilt or innocence.
The APC secretary stated that those knowledgeable with the events at the time would testify to the facts, encouraging all parties to allow due process to run its course.
He also condemned statements that questioned the popularity of the existing administration, pointing out that state citizens were in a position to evaluate the government.
Balogun praised the state administration for its determination to pursue justice, noting that the case was already before a competent court.
He stated that it was the judiciary’s job to decide the issue, warning against attempts to sway public opinion through media stories.
The APC secretary also encouraged the PDP to advise Saraki to clear his name through legal channels rather than making utterances that could undermine public institutions.
He believes that no one is above the law, and that media campaigns should not replace judicial processes.
Balogun stated that the current administration is still focused on governance, which includes infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, and timely salary and pension payments.
He went on to say that the government would not be sidetracked by political criticism and would remain committed to the state’s security, development, and justice.