A fresh controversy has erupted within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State over the Kwara North Senatorial ticket, following allegations that a forged affidavit was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to substitute the party’s candidate, Rotimi Iliasu, with businessman Kolo Jiya.
Iliasu had earlier emerged with the party’s ticket for the Kwara North Senatorial District. Sometime after, Jiya, also from Kwara North, joined the PDP. According to sources, the party subsequently resolved to transfer the ticket to Jiya, reportedly on account of his financial strength.
Multiple efforts were said to have been made to get Iliasu to step down and release the ticket, but he declined.
It was learnt today that when those moves failed, documents were allegedly submitted to INEC claiming that Iliasu had voluntarily withdrawn his candidature in favour of Jiya. The documents included an affidavit purportedly sworn by Iliasu to that effect.
Iliasu, however, has denied withdrawing. Following his confrontation with the affidavit, its authenticity was verified with the Kwara State High Court. In its response, the court reportedly indicated that the document did not emanate from it, pointing to the affidavit being fake. Copies of the affidavit and the court’s response have been made available to the press.
The matter is currently pending before the Federal High Court, Ilorin Division.
Meanwhile, sources close to Iliasu say he has received several threats from those behind the alleged scheme
