Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq faces backlash over FCT election remarks while communities reel from attacks and kidnappings in his state

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has drawn sharp criticism after a viral video showed him pledging to deliver electoral victory for the All Progressives Congress in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council Election, even as insecurity worsens in parts of Kwara.

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In the video from a recent political gathering, AbdulRazaq told party members, “On behalf of the excellencies and many other esteemed colleagues on the committee, I assure Mr President and our party leaders that we will work as a team with local stakeholders and community influencers to deliver FCT to the All Progressives Congress.”

He added that the people of the six FCT council areas would “align with our party and show truly that APC is not just the party of now but also the reliable vessel to Nigeria’s progress and sustainable future.”

The remarks have triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians questioning the governor’s priorities as the state grapples with deadly attacks, abductions, and rising fears in rural communities.

The criticism comes amid heightened tension following the circulation of a disturbing video by suspected terrorists, allegedly showing victims from the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area.

Reacting to the video, the Kwara State Government, through Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju, said authorities were working with security agencies and local stakeholders to verify identities and gather information.

The government highlighted conflicting reports regarding the number of abducted persons and stressed that the priority remains the safe rescue of citizens and bringing perpetrators to justice.

Social media users expressed frustration over AbdulRazaq’s FCT comments. On X, OurFaveOnlineDoc (@OurFavOnlineDoc) wrote: “My job to Tinubu is to deliver FCT for APC.

Not to deliver Kwara people from terrorism… the only thing in this governor’s head is votes.” Everything Politics (@Everypolitics1) added, “The oath of office is to serve the people of Kwara and not to deliver the FCT for any political party.”

Other users described the remarks as disconnected from the state’s security challenges, with several highlighting ongoing attacks, kidnappings, and displacement in communities including Ira, Inaja, and Aho.

Authorities have reported that residents in some affected areas are fleeing their homes over threats and warning letters allegedly issued by suspected terrorists.

A traditional chief in Ira, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that one such letter was dropped near a central mosque.

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The backlash underscores growing frustration among citizens over security lapses in Kwara State and the perceived misalignment of political priorities during a period of escalating violence.