Kwara APC Rebuts Saraki Over Offa Robbery Political Controversy
APC officials condemn claims that the 2018 deadly bank robbery was politicized.
1Renewed Political Tensions
The All Progressives Congress in Kwara State has formally criticized former Senate President Bukola Saraki and PDP candidate Saheed Popoola. This follows Popoola’s recent claim that the 2018 Offa bank robbery, which resulted in 33 deaths, was deliberately politicized to damage Saraki’s reputation during the 2019 election cycle in Nigeria.
2Conflicting Political Narratives
Saheed Popoola, a former APC member, reportedly admitted at the Olofa of Offa’s palace that he played a leading role in linking Saraki to the robbery for political gain. The APC leadership in Ilorin has since condemned these remarks as insensitive, arguing that such admissions undermine the gravity of the violent tragedy.
3Evidence and Legal Context
APC State Publicity Secretary Abdulwaheed Babatunde insists that Popoola’s admission does not invalidate evidence presented during criminal trials. He cited statements from convicted gang members, wedding memorabilia, and vehicle records as proof of associations between Saraki and suspects. Saraki has consistently denied these allegations, labeling the ongoing legal process as persecution.
4Criminal Trial Developments
While five principal suspects were convicted in 2024 and had their sentences upheld in 2026, separate legal proceedings involving Saraki and former Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed continue. The state government recently applied to reduce the original 20-count charge against four defendants to four counts, a move Saraki’s office describes as evidence of unfounded allegations.
5Humanitarian and Ethical Concerns
APC Deputy Chairman Abdullahi Samari criticized the politicization of the incident, emphasizing the ongoing suffering of the 33 victims' families. He argued that using a violent tragedy for electoral advantage is inhumane and reckless, urging security agencies to investigate the implications of Popoola’s public comments regarding the manipulation of the robbery narrative.
6Legal Strategy and Defense
Saraki’s media office maintains that the state government’s decision to drop 18 of the 20 charges confirms the original allegations were baseless. His legal team is prepared to challenge the remaining four counts in court. This legal maneuvering remains a central point of contention between the former Senate President and the state authorities.
7Electoral Climate in Kwara
The controversy is intensifying as political parties prepare for the 2027 general elections. The APC is urging voters in Offa and Kwara South to prioritize integrity and public trust when selecting representatives. The party remains confident in its local support base, citing the community's historical contribution to the current state government's emergence.
8Broader Political Implications
This dispute highlights the volatile intersection of criminal justice and partisan politics in Nigeria. As parties trade accusations, the Offa robbery remains a sensitive issue that continues to shape political discourse. The outcome of the remaining court charges will likely influence the political landscape in Kwara State leading up to 2027.