The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has criticised the recent decision by the Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq-led APC government to erect walls against some business owners in Challenge, Unity, Post Office, and other key business areas in Ilorin, the state capital.
The party assured the aggrieved youth business owners to be patient that when PDP takes over power in the state in the forthcoming 2027 gubernatorial election, those walls would be removed
This is contained in a press statement issued by the state Chairman of the party, Rt. Hon Babatunde Mohammed made available to Vanguard Correspondent in Ilorin on Monday.
The statement noted that “this action is not only an act of economic sabotage but also a calculated attempt to strangle the poor masses and enterprising youth population of Kwara, who rely on these areas for their livelihoods.
“The PDP sympathizes deeply with all affected victims of this draconian economic strangulation scheme, especially those protesting this despicable act of the government.
“We assure them that if elected in 2027, a PDP-led government will prioritize the immediate removal of all these oppressive walls, restoring access and opportunities for businesses to thrive.” the statement added.
“The PDP notes with dismay the agitation of young business owners and entrepreneurs operating in the Challenge, Unity, and Post Office areas, which are considered the largest business hubs in Ilorin.
” The erection of these fences, which has effectively shut down access to small-scale businesses, demonstrates a complete lack of empathy and consideration for the devastating impact this will have on business owners, their families, and the local economy by the current administration.” the statement further said.
Denying people access to their places of livelihood,the statement also said,” is not only callous but also an act of despotic recklessness. It is particularly shocking and deeply unfortunate that Governor Abdulrazaq ignored the years of hard work, personal sacrifices, and loans invested by these business owners before embarking on such, an anti-people policy.”
The Kwara PDP also called on security agencies,” to ensure the safety and rights of the protesting youth entrepreneurs.’ urging that,”. they must act responsibly and advise the governor that this action, if unchecked, could further escalate violence and criminal activities in the Ilorin metropolis as hundreds of young people lose their means of livelihood.”
The Kwara PDP also urged,” the protesting young entrepreneurs to conduct themselves peacefully and not play into the governor’s hands, we assure Kwarans that the PDP government in 2027, In-sha Allah, will reverse this decision and dismantle all structures erected to suppress economic growth and strangle the poor masses.” the statement said.
