Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has reportedly travelled to France amid rising insecurity in parts of the state, with claims that the trip is linked to political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to multiple sources, the governor’s foreign visit comes at a time when several communities in Kwara are experiencing renewed bandit attacks, kidnappings, and worsening security concerns.
Some reports allege that AbdulRazaq made unsuccessful attempts to join President Bola Tinubu’s official delegation before later travelling independently to Europe for what sources described as private political engagements.
The sources further claimed that the governor’s trip is connected to efforts to secure backing for succession plans in Kwara State as his tenure progresses, although these claims remain unverified.
They also alleged that the governor’s move is part of a broader strategy to maintain political influence in the state beyond his tenure, despite earlier public resistance to political godfatherism in Kwara.
Critics, however, argue that the trip reflects misplaced priorities, especially as insecurity continues to affect several communities across the state.
Reports indicate that parts of Kwara North, including Kaiama Local Government Area, have experienced repeated attacks, leading to displacement of residents, including women and children.
There have also been recent incidents of abductions in other communities, including attacks on traditional institutions, further raising concerns about safety in rural areas.
Some residents and sources have accused the state government of not doing enough to address the worsening security situation, claiming that affected communities feel neglected.
Additional allegations suggest that humanitarian relief efforts in some areas have been politicised, with displaced persons expressing frustration over how aid is distributed.
Despite the controversies, no official statement has confirmed the purpose of the governor’s trip or addressed the allegations surrounding it.
