By Lawal Akanbi Sharafadeen
In the realm of governance, prioritizing and focusing on the core needs of the populace is crucial. Unfortunately, the current administration under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has lost sight of its primary mandate. Instead of concentrating on revitalizing the state’s economy and fulfilling campaign promises, the administration is preoccupied with peripheral issues and political power plays. This diversion from the core responsibilities of governance has resulted in economic decline (as manifested in the state’s GDP rating), stagnation and unfulfilled expectations for the people of Kwara State.
Governor Abdulrazaq’s first four years in office were lackluster, with little to show in terms of tangible achievements. The last one year of his second-term has been largely uninspiring and uneventful. Despite borrowing a significant sum of 51 billion naira purportedly for developmental projects, there is a stark absence of commissioned projects. The much-touted garment factory, which was slated to kickstart operations in early 2023, is a glaring example of unfulfilled promises which remains dormant.
A comparative analysis with neighboring states, such as Osun, where Governor Adeleke has made significant strides in just two years, highlights the need for introspection in Kwara State. Osun State road construction progresses swiftly without compromising quality or disrupting economic activities along the road, construction projects in Kwara often lead to complete shutdowns of economic activities even for shorter road sections. Abdulrazaq’s first four-year tenure, raises questions about the administration’s commitment to governance.
Unlike other state governors who regularly address their people on issues and policies, Governor Abdulrazaq has been noticeably silent, failing to provide explanations on key matters affecting Kwarans.
Furthermore, there appears to be a diversionary ploy within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, with the agitation for the Kwara North Agenda. This move seems to be a diversionary tactic, steering public attention away from the administration’s ineptness performance and lack of tangible progress.
It is incumbent upon the people of Kwara State, particularly those in Kwara North, to challenge their representatives, from the Speaker and other House of Assembly members to their House of Representatives and Senate representative, to account for their actions in the past four years and upon getting re-elected. It should not merely be about power shift but about tangible development and progress for the region.
The focus should shift from political distractions to governance and delivering on the mandate entrusted to the administration by the people of Kwara State. The uncertainties of 2027 should not overshadow the immediate need for accountability and development. The distractions of the past must be set aside in favour of a renewed commitment to the development and prosperity of Kwara State.
Lawal Akanbi Sharafadeen writes from the Capital of Kwara state .
