Saraki Denies Offa Robbery Link, Accuses AbdulRazaq of Witch-Hunt

Saraki Denies Offa Robbery Link, Accuses AbdulRazaq of Witch-Hunt

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has strongly denied any involvement in the 2018 Offa armed robbery, accusing Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, of reviving “baseless allegations” to pursue a political witch-hunt.

In a statement issued on Friday, Saraki described attempts to initiate criminal proceedings against him as “insidious,” insisting he has no direct or indirect link to the crime or any form of criminal activity. He said he was compelled to respond due to growing public concern and what he described as deliberate efforts to mislead Nigerians.

Saraki further alleged that the Offa robbery case was politicised from the outset, claiming it was used during the administration of Muhammadu Buhari as a tool to weaken his political influence ahead of the 2019 general elections. According to him, the renewed claims are part of a broader attempt to tarnish his image following his recent comments on insecurity in Kwara State.

The former Senate President also cited legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, noting that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) had twice found no evidence linking him to the Offa robbery. He explained that the reports concluded there was no nexus between him and the suspects and that no prima facie case could be established for offences including armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and culpable homicide.

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He added that suspects arrested in connection with the robbery were prosecuted and convicted, with their convictions upheld on appeal, while the matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court. Saraki argued that revisiting the case despite these outcomes amounts to an abuse of judicial process.

Saraki also vowed to challenge any fresh move against him in court, stating that his legal team is prepared to defend his innocence. He further alleged that attempts were made to involve families of victims in civil actions against him, but claimed those efforts failed.

The Offa robbery incident, which occurred in April 2018 in Offa, involved coordinated attacks on banks and police facilities, resulting in the deaths of several people, including security personnel. The case drew nationwide attention and led to multiple arrests by the Nigeria Police Force.

The renewed controversy highlights ongoing political tensions in Kwara State between Saraki and Governor AbdulRazaq, with analysts suggesting the dispute may be linked to evolving political alignments and early positioning ahead of future elections.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kwara State Government has not issued a detailed response to Saraki’s latest claims.

Saraki Denies Offa Robbery Link, Accuses AbdulRazaq of Witch-Hunt