Gov AbdulRazaq faces backlash over pledge to deliver FCT for APC amid Kwara insecurity

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has come under heavy criticism after a viral video showed him promising to secure victory for the All Progressives Congress in council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, despite worsening security challenges in his home state.

Speaking at a recent party gathering, AbdulRazaq assured party leaders and President Bola Tinubu that he and other stakeholders would mobilise support to ensure the APC’s success in the FCT polls.

“On behalf of my colleagues on the committee, I assure Mr President and our party leaders that we will work with local stakeholders and community influencers to deliver the FCT to the APC,” he said, expressing confidence that residents across the six area councils would align with the party.

However, the remarks have triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians questioning the governor’s priorities at a time when parts of Kwara are grappling with deadly attacks, kidnappings, and mass displacement.

The criticism intensified following the circulation of a disturbing video allegedly released by suspected terrorists, said to show victims abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area.

In response, the state government, through the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said authorities were collaborating with security agencies to analyse the footage and identify those affected.

“The Kwara State Government is deeply concerned over the disturbing video released by terrorists,” the statement read, adding that conflicting reports on the number of abducted persons had made it difficult to confirm exact figures.

Officials said their priority remains rescuing victims and ensuring perpetrators face justice.

Despite the assurance, many residents and social media users argued that the governor’s focus on political victories outside the state appeared disconnected from the urgent security concerns at home.

Several critics accused AbdulRazaq of prioritising party politics over governance and the protection of lives.

Meanwhile, fear continues to spread in affected communities, with reports that residents of Ira, Inaja, and Aho have begun fleeing after suspected terrorists allegedly distributed threat letters warning of further attacks. A traditional chief in Ira said one such letter was found at a motorcycle park near the town’s central mosque.

The controversy highlights growing frustration among citizens who say the state government must address insecurity and restore confidence before pursuing broader political ambitions.