Amid rising insecurity in Kwara, the State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is facing widespread criticism after a video of him promising to secure victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Federal Capital Territory Council elections went viral, raising concerns over priorities amid worsening insecurity in parts of the state.
In the clip from a recent political gathering, AbdulRazaq assured party leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, of his commitment to rally local stakeholders and community influencers to deliver the FCT to the ruling “On party behalf of our committee, we will work with local stakeholders to ensure the good people of the Federal Capital Territory across the six councils support APC, showing that the party is a reliable vessel for Nigeria’s progress and future,” the governor said.
The comments have sparked outrage on social media, with critics questioning the timing and focus of the statement as Kwara grapples with violent attacks, abductions, and widespread fear in rural communities.
Tensions have escalated following the circulation of a video allegedly showing victims of the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area by suspected terrorists.
Reacting to the footage, the Kwara State Government, through Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju, said authorities were working with security agencies to verify the identities of those shown.
“The state government is deeply concerned about the disturbing video released earlier today, allegedly showing persons abducted during the tragic Woro attack.
“Security agencies and government officials are carefully reviewing the footage to establish identities,” the statement said.
The government added that conflicting reports regarding the number of abductees have complicated confirmation.
“Our priority remains the safe rescue of all affected citizens and bringing perpetrators to justice,” it said.
Despite the official response, online criticism of the governor’s FCT remarks has intensified.
Many Nigerians argue that the statement demonstrates a disconnect from the urgent security challenges facing Kwara communities.
On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed outrage over the governor’s focus on political gains over citizens’ safety.
One user wrote, “My job is to deliver FCT for APC, not to protect Kwara people from terrorism or care for victims’ families,” while another stated, “Oaths of office are to serve the people, not strategize for elections. Governance is about security, development, and accountability.”
Several others condemned the governor for prioritizing electoral victories over the well-being of his constituents, reflecting growing frustration as reports of killings, kidnappings, and threats continue to circulate across the state.