Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has faced intense criticism from citizens and political commentators after a video of him pledging to “deliver” victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections went viral online.
In the clip from a recent political event, Governor AbdulRazaq told party members that, on behalf of senior APC leaders, he and others would work with stakeholders to ensure electoral success for the ruling party across the six council areas of the FCT. He expressed confidence that residents of the nation’s capital would align with the APC, reinforcing the party’s role as “a reliable vessel to Nigeria’s progress and sustainable future.”
The comments were made against the backdrop of an intensified APC campaign to win all six area councils in Abuja, with the party’s national leadership inaugurating a campaign council ahead of the February 21 polls. The campaign setup, which Governor AbdulRazaq chairs, aims to mobilise voters through grassroots engagement and targeted strategies.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s remarks quickly drew rebukes from social media users and political observers who described the pledge as misplaced, particularly as Kwara State grapples with rising insecurity and recent violent attacks.
In recent weeks, residents of rural Kwara communities have confronted deadly raids by suspected bandits, resulting in abductions and heightened fear among families. Authorities have been analysing disturbing footage purportedly showing some of those taken during attacks to verify identities and coordinate rescue efforts.
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Critics argue that the governor’s focus on electoral outcomes in another jurisdiction appears disconnected from pressing security concerns in his own state. On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed disappointment that the governor’s remarks centred on party politics rather than addressing the safety and welfare of Kwara citizens. Comments ranged from questioning the governor’s priorities to calling for greater attention on restoring peace and protecting communities.
Political analysts note that while senior party figures often take leading roles in election campaigns across states, public office holders are expected to balance partisan activities with governance duties, especially in regions facing violent unrest.
As the FCT Area Council elections approach, the controversy highlights broader tensions in Nigeria’s political landscape, where governance challenges and electoral ambitions frequently intersect.
