Loyalists trade words over Saraki’s absence at durbar

The political camps of Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq, and that of former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, yesterday, traded words over the absence of Saraki at this year’s durbar celebrations.
 
Saraki had, reportedly through Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the National Publicity Secretary of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said he excused himself from the colourful event to ensure peaceful celebrations. He was apparently making reference to a likely clash between his supporters and those of AbdulRazaq at the yearly event.
 
His media aide, Abdulganiyu Abdulquadri, in a statement, said his boss would not attend today (yesterday’s) event because of his love for Ilorin Emirate Community and his commitment to an atmosphere of peace. 

But the Chief Press Secretary to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ruling governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, dismissed the claim as a mischief, stating that Saraki had allegedly been shunning the event since 2019.
 
According to Ajakaye, Saraki should leave Governor AbdulRazaq out of “his self-inflicted shame of not being able to hold himself to the standard expected of a statesman who should exhibit decorum, decency and good behaviour.” 
 
He added: “The governor has repeatedly shown humility and large-heart to accommodate everyone to operate as they wish as bona ]fide citizens. He is not about to go low because of Senator Saraki’s provocative behaviour and intent to foul the atmosphere with his unstatesmanly conduct at public events.”

“Repeatedly, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has demonstrated his belief in politics without bitterness through his all-inclusive politics that addresses the needs of all citizens in the state, irrespective of any differences.

“In sustained demonstration of his statesmanship and large-heartedness, the Governor shook hands with the former Senate President and other opposition politicians at the Ilorin Eid praying ground.
 
“Landslide victories of 2019 and 2023 elections in Kwara are clear testimonies of how the people of Kwara State have preferred the Governor to lead the state. He is thankful to God and to the people for the vote of confidence in his humble leadership.
 
“Finally, to the best of our knowledge, Senator Saraki has never attended the Ilorin Durbar since 2019. His statement, therefore, reeks of mischief and bad faith, which we leave history to judge.”