We'll Not Descend Into Gutter of Inhumane Politics With You - PDP Tells Gov Abdulrahman
....Debunks Stampede, death claim in Saraki's residence
The Kwara State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is deeply appalled by the irresponsible and insensitive comments made by Ibraheem Abdullateef, the Senior Special Assistant on Communication to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, concerning the unfortunate passing of Hajia Roheemat Aduke Atanda.
The party considers it the height of political recklessness to exploit the tragic loss of a citizen for propaganda purposes. At a time when empathy and compassion should prevail, the Governor and his aides have chosen to play petty politics with the grief of a mourning family. This conduct is not only disgraceful but also underscores the insensitivity and lack of decency that have come to characterise Governor Abdulrahman's administration.
Ordinarily, we would not have dignified Abdullateef with a response. However, for the benefit of the public who might be misled by his deliberate falsehoods, it is important to set the record straight.
The late Hajia Roheemat Aduke Atanda was a devoted member of our party and indeed, she attended the Sallah hangout hosted by Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, alongside other loyal members and supporters of our party. Contrary to the malicious claims by Governor Abdulrahman's aide, there was no stampede during the course of the celebration and the deceased did not die at Dr. Saraki’s residence. There are video recordings of all activities at the event, including when cash gift was distributed to attendees.
Hajia Aduke, who had a known underlying health condition, as confirmed by her family, slumped outside the premises on her way home. She was immediately rushed to a private hospital at Sabo-Oke, where she received initial treatment before being referred to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Oke-Oyi. Unfortunately, she passed away despite all efforts to save her.
In line with our values of compassion and solidarity, the party, through the Office of the Women Leader, covered the cost of her treatment at both hospitals and also paid a condolence visit to her bereaved family.
It is also important to note that a medical team was present at the venue of the Sallah hangout, which reflects Dr. Saraki’s commitment to the safety and well-being of his supporters. Had Hajia Aduke slumped while the event was ongoing, the medical team would have promptly provided first aid before any hospital referral. This further debunks the misleading narrative being peddled by Governor Abdulrahman's aide that the deceased died in a stampede at Dr. Saraki's house.
It is irresponsible and reprehensible for the mindless Abdullateef to suggest that the deceased was used for a political sacrifice. Such a vile and baseless claim reflects his disturbing level of insensitivity and desperation. We strongly advise him and other lackeys of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrahman to desist from playing politics with the tragic loss of a fellow citizen.
Should we adopt the logic of Abdullateef, we would have equally claimed that the tragic death of one Miss Oluwatoyin, allegedly crushed by the convoy of the First Lady, Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, during a public event, was for a political sacrifice. Since the sad incident occurred, there has been no official word or act of sympathy from the Governor and his wife.
Rather than spewing falsehoods, Abdulrahman's aides should focus on advising their principal to urgently address the growing insecurity that continues to claim innocent lives across Kwara State. We also call on the government to provide clear answers regarding the mysterious deaths of two young men at Kwara Hotel, a facility currently undergoing renovation at an inflated cost of over N22 billion, while ordinary citizens continue to suffer under the weight of hunger and poverty.
Governor Abdulrahman lacks the moral standing to lecture anyone on empathy or responsibility. The PDP will not descend into the gutter of inhumane politics with him. Instead, we will continue to stand with the people of Kwara State with dignity, compassion, and a sense of duty.
The Governor must understand that Kwarans will not be swayed by fabricated tales and propaganda. They will judge his administration by its glaring lack of tangible development, its absentee leadership, and its blatant disregard for human dignity. No amount of propaganda or dirty politics can redeem a government that has reduced Kwara to a symbol of financial mismanagement and leadership failure.
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