PDP Slams AbdulRazaq as Kwara Government Lawyers’ Strike Enters Indefinite Phase

The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has seized on the indefinite strike by government lawyers to launch a fresh attack on the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing the industrial action as evidence of what it called a deepening governance crisis in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday by its State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the opposition party said the decision of members of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN), Kwara State Chapter, to withdraw their services reflected the government’s failure to prioritise the welfare of key public servants.

The PDP noted that the striking law officers are responsible for prosecuting criminal cases, representing the state in court, drafting legislation, vetting government contracts, recovering public revenue and providing legal advice to ministries, departments and agencies. It argued that the suspension of these essential services highlights growing discontent within critical government institutions.

The party also linked the development to an earlier industrial action by magistrates in the state over remuneration and welfare issues, claiming that repeated labour disputes point to wider governance and workforce challenges.

Questioning the utilisation of increased federal allocations to Kwara State, the PDP alleged that workers continue to grapple with unpaid allowances, poor welfare and rising economic hardship despite higher monthly revenues accruing to the state.

The opposition further expressed concern over the security situation in parts of Kwara North and Kwara South, arguing that inadequate support for government institutions has weakened the state’s ability to effectively address emerging challenges.

According to the PDP, the performance of any government should be measured by the strength of its institutions and the welfare of its workforce rather than public relations campaigns. It maintained that the recurring strikes across key sectors demonstrate the need for urgent intervention by the state government.

The party called on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to immediately engage the striking law officers, address their welfare concerns and implement measures aimed at improving the conditions of service for civil servants across the state.

Members of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, commenced an indefinite strike after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the state government over unresolved welfare demands, a move expected to affect legal services provided by the state’s Ministry of Justice, including criminal prosecutions, legal advisory services and contract vetting.