The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has accused Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of attempting to reopen and politicise the Offa robbery case in a bid to implicate former Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki.
Addressing journalists during a press conference, the party expressed concern over what it described as a “disturbing development,” alleging that the move is aimed at blackmailing its leader and reshaping public perception ahead of future political contests.
The PDP stated that the reported plan to revisit the case comes despite the absence of any fresh court processes served on Dr. Saraki, describing the development as “desperate and reckless.”
The party further argued that the alleged move may be a diversion from growing criticisms of the state government, particularly over insecurity and governance challenges across parts of Kwara State.
Citing previous investigations, the PDP noted that the Offa robbery case was thoroughly handled by the Nigerian Police, while legal advisories issued in 2018 by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) found no evidence linking Dr. Saraki to the crime.
Quoting from the advisories, the party said: “This office is unable to establish from the evidence… a nexus between the alleged offence and the suspect,” and further noted that no prima facie case was established against the former Senate President.
The party also pointed out that suspects in the case were prosecuted and convicted at trial, with judgments upheld on appeal, while the matter is currently before the Supreme Court.
“Recent political developments in the state, including increased support for the PDP, may have triggered attempts to revive the case for political purposes”, it added.
It urged the Kwara State government to make public the full legal records of the case rather than “selectively promoting narratives,” warning against actions that could heighten political tension.
The party also called on residents of Offa, particularly victims’ families, to resist what it described as attempts to exploit a tragic incident for political gain.
It further urged security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), to monitor the situation closely to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The PDP maintained that Kwara State must not be drawn into unnecessary crisis, stressing the need for responsible leadership and respect for due process.