Offa Killings: Lawal Oko-Ode Berates Kwara Gov, Warns Against Politicising Tragedy
By Kaosara Olayemi Oladimeji
A Chieftain of People’s Democratic Party, PDP and House of Representatives aspirant for Offa, Oyun and Ifelodun Federal Constituency, High Chief Abdulrazak Abiodun Lawal Oko-Ode, has berated the Kwara State Governor over renewed references to the 2018 Offa bank robbery, describing the move as a distraction from pressing governance challenges.
Lawal Oko-Ode, in a statement made available to INCNews247 on Saturday, said the people of Offa and the wider Kwara State were still grappling with the painful memories of the April 5, 2018 incident, stressing that the victims deserved justice rather than political rhetoric.
“Seven years after that tragic incident, families are still seeking closure. What they need is justice and lasting security, not political games,” he said.
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He argued that reviving the issue in the current political climate was misplaced, especially amid growing concerns over insecurity and unemployment in the state.
“At a time when our people are confronted with rising insecurity and economic hardship, it is troubling that the government is revisiting a matter that has already gone through due process,” Lawal Oko-Ode stated.
The aspirant insisted that investigations into the robbery were concluded, with suspects apprehended and prosecuted, adding that alleged political links raised at the time were not substantiated by the courts.
“This case was handled within the ambit of the law. Attempts to politicise it were exposed, and no judicial pronouncement established such claims,” he added.
Lawal cautioned against what he described as the exploitation of a sensitive issue for political gain.
“Reopening this painful chapter for popularity undermines the memory of those who lost their lives. It is both unfair and insensitive,” he said.
He further emphasised the need to allow security agencies to handle criminal matters without interference.
“Law enforcement institutions should be allowed to do their work professionally, without undue political influence or media sensationalism,” he noted.
While calling for a shift in focus, Lawal urged the government to tackle present-day security concerns affecting residents across the state.
“Kwarans today are more concerned about their safety and livelihoods. Many live in fear, and government must respond decisively to these realities,” he said.
He also called for unity and responsible leadership, warning against actions capable of deepening political divisions.
“This is a time for leadership that brings people together, not one that reopens old wounds for convenience,” he added.
Lawal urged the governor to concentrate on governance priorities, including job creation, security and inclusive development.
“Our people deserve purposeful leadership. The victims of April 5, 2018 must not be used as tools for political relevance, while the living continue to struggle,” he said.
