Kwara Monarch to Political Class: Stop politicising insecurity
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Oloro of Oro Kingdom in the Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Joel Titiloye, has cautioned the political class against politicising the lingering security challenges in parts of the state.
The monarch, who noted that the current wave of insecurity in southern and northern parts of the state calls for sober reflection, stressed the need for all stakeholders to work with government to de-escalate and nip the menace in the bud.
In a statement he personally issued and made available to Journalists in Ilorin, the monarch expressed worry that some individuals were trying to make political capital out of the disturbing situation that the insecurity has caused to some local communities in the state.
Oba Titiloye acknowledged that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has shown unwavering commitment to routing out the criminal elements maiming, kidnapping for ransom and spilling innocent blood, with active support of the security personnel who are on the front line to end the menace.
He added that information at his disposal confirmed that the state government is not folding arms in the face of the ugly trend, calling for renewed vigour and commitment to stamp out the violent non-state actors.
The traditional ruler appealed to residents of the state, particularly rural dwellers, to volunteer timely information and intelligence that would help in dismantling criminal network before men of the underworld carry out their evil plan.
While sympathising with the families and loved ones of those who suffered in the cruel criminal attacks, Oba Titiloye urged the citizens to put the interest of the state and nation above ethnic, political and parochial interests.
He added: “It is troubling that in recent times, some members of the political class have turned the atmosphere of insecurity in the northern and southern parts of the state to an avenue to make political capital. This is rather unfortunate.
“In a time like this, one would have expected collective sense of empathy, sympathy and with gamut of efforts to identify new approach to send these criminal elements out of Kwara, especially now that any falsehood about the security situation could trigger anxiety among residents.
“I’m aware that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has done a lot in ending the menace of insecurity in the state. So, instead of turning this tragic moment into political gains, I would advise that we reflect on this situation soberly.
“This is the highest and greatest time that we should be our brother’s keeper and say something when we see something, and provide government and security operatives timely information.”