The Benchmark of Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq in Kwara, A Tale of Insecurity and Failing Governance.

 Bashir Ashura.

Over the past few months, the once peaceful and harmonious state of Kwara has been plunged into a worrying state of heightening insecurity, banditry, and cultism under the administration of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. The rising tide of violence and lawlessness that has beset the state stands as a poignant testament to the governor's apparent lack of prioritization of Kwara's welfare. 

The governor, it seems, has morphed into a tourist, constantly traveling from one state to another, one country to another, leaving Kwara to grapple with its mounting issues. The recent spate of killings and daily kidnappings in the state are an unfortunate testament to this stark reality. While the governor enjoys the protection of a robust security detail, ordinary Kwarans are left to fend for themselves against the mounting insecurity.

In stark contrast, the preceding administration of Abdulfatahi Ahmed was marked by safety and stability. Ahmed's "Light Up Kwara" project not only illuminated the state but also served as a deterrent to criminals who usually thrive under the cover of darkness. Despite the financial challenges, Ahmed managed the state’s lean resources effectively, ensuring regular salaries for workers(State workers) and maintaining adequate security for the people. 

Unfortunately, under Abdulrazaq’s administration, the situation has taken a detour for the worse. Allegations of unpaid salaries for the Community Police Constables recruited in 2021, misuse of patrol vehicles for personal use, a high rate of cultism, banditry, broad daylight kidnappings, and theft are some of the issues that have tainted his tenure. Additionally, the state has seen an alarming rise in drug abuse and fraud since 2019.

Communities live in fear due to the increase in burglary, gangsterism, rape, and religious crisis. This is happening despite the considerable security votes allocated to Kwara. Rather than focusing on these prevailing security challenges, the security personnel in Kwara are allegedly being used to persecute media practitioners and journalists.

The current administration must wake up to the urgent task of restoring harmony and safety to Kwara. The security apparatus should be redirected towards ensuring the safety of the citizens rather than being used as a tool for political intimidation.

To claw back Kwara from the claws of insecurity, it is essential that the Abdulrazaq led administration prioritizes the welfare of Kwarans. This can be achieved through the effective utilization of security votes to bolster security infrastructure, regular payment of salaries to stimulate the economy, and a renewed commitment to good governance. 

Moreover, the administration should consider implementing community policing, investing in youth empowerment programs to curb drug abuse and crime, and promoting religious tolerance to mitigate religious crises. 

Kwara was once a haven of peace and tranquility. It is high time the current administration took the necessary steps to restore the state's former glory and ensure the safety and wellbeing of its people.