The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticised the Kwara State Government over its decision to reopen the Offa bank robbery case, describing the fresh charges against former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki as a desperate political ploy to distract from governance failures and weaken opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a sharp reaction, the PDP accused Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration of resorting to “political propaganda” instead of focusing on delivering good governance.
The party warned that no amount of such tactics would save the governor from what it called an inevitable judgement by the people of Kwara in 2027.
The controversy stems from the state government’s move to file new charges against Saraki and others, citing fresh evidence including weapons and exhibits allegedly recovered from government facilities, as well as confessional statements from some convicted suspects who claimed they received support from political actors.
However, the PDP pointed to earlier legal opinions issued in 2018 by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, which explicitly stated there was no evidence linking Saraki to the robbery.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, after reviewing police investigation reports, had concluded that no prima facie case existed against the former Senate President.
The legal advice at the time recommended further investigation into other individuals but did not implicate Saraki.
A subsequent review of additional findings by the police reaffirmed this position.The case has seen significant judicial progress: In 2024, the Kwara State High Court convicted several suspects, sentencing five to death.
The Court of Appeal in Ilorin upheld the convictions in January 2026, and the matter is now pending before the Supreme Court.
Legal experts remain divided on the latest development. Some argue that credible new evidence could justify fresh prosecution, while others view the timing and targeting of Saraki as suspicious, especially amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the next general elections.
The renewed case has sparked intense debate across Kwara and beyond, with many observers watching closely to see how the matter unfolds in court.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NOP NIGERIA to reach thousands of our daily users
