Emirship: Saraki was in Lafiagi on condolence visit, not to influence selection process – Aide

By Ahmed Ajikobi
Abdulqadir Abdulganiyu, the Press Officer on Local Matters to ex-senate president, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has cleared the air on the purpose of the visit of the former Kwara State governor to Lafiagi.
This came on the heels of an online publication that Saraki was in Lafiagi to influence the selection process for a new monarch, following demise of the Emir of the town, Alhaji Saadu Kawu Haliru, penultimate week.
Abdulganiyu said the ex-senate president was in Lafiagi in Edu Local Government Area of the state, to commiserate with the royal family and people of the town over the passing of the Emir.
He emphasised that Saraki had no business in the selection process for a new traditional ruler for the emirate.
“It is illogical for anyone to think or say Saraki wants to influence the selection of anyone as the next Emir when we all know it’s the Governor that will do the appointment,” he clarified.
He noted that Saraki who was received by a huge crowd on arrival in Lafiagi proceeded to the Emir’s Palace where he prayed for the repose of soul of the late monarch, his family and the town.
Abdulqadir disclosed that Saraki had no closed meeting with anyone throughout his stay in Lafiagi.
“There was no closed door meeting. All the time he spent in the palace was in the presence of the crowd which included some aspirants for the traditional stool.
“We urge mischief makers and their sponsors to stop circulating false news that can generate unnecessary tension in any part of the state.
“The peace of Kwara State should be paramount to all stakeholders, indigenes and residents. Those who indulge in dirty politics and cheap blackmail should tame their desperation and spare the people all these shenanigans,” Abdulquadri said.