Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, a former Senate President and prominent political figure in Kwara State, has strongly condemned the recent demolition of the Crystal Place shopping mall in Ilorin.
The demolition was ordered by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration, igniting a fierce backlash from Saraki and other stakeholders in the state.
Saraki’s comments reflect deepening tensions between his political faction and the current administration, as well as concerns for the local economy.
The Crystal Place, located on Sulu Gambari Road in Ilorin, was demolished over the weekend.
The action has been described by Saraki as a “violence against the people of Kwara State and the economy.”
He emphasized that the decision to demolish the mall was not just an attack on its owner, Hon. Moshood Mustapha, but a broader assault on the citizens of Kwara.
The demolition has raised questions about the motives behind the government’s decision.
Saraki remarked, “This is the beginning of a war against Kwara State for rejecting a governor who has failed to deliver good governance.”
The demolition comes on the heels of local government elections.
Saraki suggested that the demolitions were an attempt by the governor to intimidate the people following the election results.
He questioned why the government only chose to address alleged issues with the mall after more than five years in office.
“Why is Abdulrazaq just realizing the fault or whatever he interprets to be wrong with the building after 64 months?” he asked.
This question highlights the perception of arbitrary governance and raises concerns about political motives behind such drastic actions.
According to Saraki, over one hundred employees have lost their jobs, while 21 shop owners have seen their investments destroyed.
“This is a loss to the state economy,” Saraki lamented, emphasizing that the focus of government should be on job creation and economic growth rather than destruction.
Saraki urged the government to foster a conducive environment for private sector investment rather than engaging in demolition exercises.
He called on leaders, religious scholars, and elders to speak out against what he termed a war on the people.
“The present government in Kwara State is waging war against the people. It is bent on impoverishing the people,” he stated.
He encouraged Kwarans to remain fearless and undeterred in standing up against a government that has failed to fulfill its responsibilities.
Saraki emphasized that Kwara State has a long history that predates the current administration.
He reminded the public that there have been six previous governors, none of whom resorted to such destructive measures against their political opponents.
“None of those before him embarked on the demolition of properties to fight political opponents,” he pointed out.
This historical perspective reinforces his argument that the current administration’s approach is not only unprecedented but also dangerous for the state’s democratic fabric.
Looking ahead, Saraki warned that Abdulrazaq’s actions could undermine the peace and tranquility that Kwara State is known for.
He asserted that the governor must understand that the state does not belong to him alone.
“The state has existed long before he became governor and will continue to exist after he has ceased to be governor,” Saraki affirmed.
As the political landscape continues to shift, the response of the people of Kwara will play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the state.
