By Folayimika Akanbi
As debate rages over the planned arraignment of the former President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki; and the former Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed, in connection with the April 2018 robbery attack in Offa, a former Commissioner for Information and Communication in the state, Professor Mahmud Babatunde Ajeigbe, said it was absurd, unthinkable and a new low in the nation’s political discourse to drag the two politicians into the incident.
He said it was inconceivable that anyone would suggest that the two former governors; one serving at the time and the other an immediate past, could sponsor or support criminals to execute one of the most daring robbery operations in the country’s history.
In a statement issued On Sunday, Ajeigbe decried what he described as the dangerous politicisation of the robbery incident, warning that such narratives undermine truth, justice, and the collective memory of the community.
“It is wrong and unheard of for anyone to insinuate that leaders at such a level could descend into criminality of that magnitude,” the former commissioner said.
Ajeigbe stated that the former Senate President’s record in public service and stature at the time of the incident make such allegations implausible.
He recalled that Saraki, who was then Nigeria’s number three citizen, responded promptly to the incident and demonstrated genuine concern for the people of Offa.
“Those of us who served in government at the time and had close interactions with him can categorically state that he would never be involved in such an abominable act,” Ajeigbe said.
He cautioned political actors against resorting to smear campaigns and character assassination, urging them instead to focus on governance and constructive engagement on issues that directly affect the people.
“Politics should not be reduced to weaponisation of falsehoods and dangerous allegations. Governance demands responsibility, sincerity, and accountability and not pettiness or diversionary tactics,” he added.
The former commissioner also reminded stakeholders of the enduring consequences of their actions, stressing that history and posterity would ultimately judge all actors.
“We must be mindful of posterity. What goes around comes around. Those who malign others today may face worse tomorrow if caution is not exercised,” he warned.
He called for restraint, truth, and a collective commitment to justice, praying that God grants fairness in judgment to all.
Wind Gate News reports that no fewer than five persons were convicted for their involvement in the deadly robbery attack that led to the loss of 33 lives in Offa community.
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