Kwara PDP Condemns APC’s Use of Guns, Violence Ahead of Local Government Elections
The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned what it describes as the dangerous introduction of firearms and violence into the state’s political landscape by the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
The PDP expressed grave concerns over recent incidents involving gunmen disrupting APC activities in the ongoing local government elections screening process.
In a statement issued on Monday by the State Publicity Secretary of the Kwara PDP, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party denounced the reported deployment of armed individuals and criminal elements during the APC’s screenings, aimed at imposing candidates loyal to Governor Abdulrazaq.
The statement highlighted troubling incidents allegedly orchestrated by masked gunmen at K-Cool Hotel in Patigi and violent outbreaks in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area. These incidents reportedly resulted in injuries and fatalities, although specific details remain unconfirmed.
“The attention of the Kwara PDP has been drawn to a deeply disturbing trend within the ranks of the Kwara APC, where gun runners and criminal assassins are reportedly being deployed by members of the ruling party to disrupt the ongoing local government elections screenings,” the statement read.
The PDP accused Governor Abdulrazaq of attempting to manipulate the electoral process in his favor, jeopardizing the state’s tradition of peaceful elections and political maturity.
“Elections are a few months away, yet allies of Governor Abdulrahman and APC members are displaying violent tendencies with no leadership from the Governor to rein them in,” the statement continued.
The PDP expressed apprehension that the situation could escalate into widespread violence as the election campaigns intensify.
Calling for immediate action, the Kwara PDP urged Governor Abdulrazaq to curb the activities of criminal elements within his party and ensure a peaceful electoral environment.
Additionally, the party called on the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, to direct the state police command to intervene swiftly and prevent further escalation of political violence in Kwara State.
“We call on all security agencies to investigate these reports thoroughly and take decisive action to halt this dangerous escalation,” the statement emphasized.
In conclusion, the Kwara PDP urged the people of Kwara State to prepare for the upcoming local government elections and use their votes to reject what it termed as the disruptive influence of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and the APC, ensuring effective governance at the local level.
