My attention has been drawn to certain discussions taking place in Kwara regarding my persona, particularly focusing on my old tweets, my tenure as the Commissioner for Works and Transportation in Kwara State, and my recent departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Ordinarily, I would have ignored the ongoing campaigns of calumny directed at me; however, given the large support base I have cultivated—including new supporters—I find it necessary to address the public to clarify my position as we progress in our political journey.
As a politician, all my statements against Dr. Bukola Saraki were made in good faith. At that time, the people of Kwara were yearning for change, and I was a committed member of the APC, actively working for the party and one of the prominent advocates of the Otoge movement, which aimed to remove the longstanding Saraki influence in Kwara politics. Such remarks are not unusual in our political landscape, where shifts and realignments frequently occur. For nearly four years, I served as a Commissioner under the Otoge-led government, and I believe that the system we once criticized delivered better governance to Kwara State than what we see today. Under the current Otoge leadership, dissenting voices are increasingly marginalized, and opportunities are perceived as threats to stability. I have now officially left the APC and aligned myself fully with Dr. Bukola Saraki’s leadership and the PDP.
Secondly, it is crucial to correct misinformation circulating about the legal case involving my father, Elder Statesman Hon. Iliasu Ibrahim, and the Kwara State Government. Contrary to false reports suggesting defamation, the actual charge filed was "public disturbance." One might wonder how a discussion surrounding factual issues in the media could be misconstrued as an abusive language against the Governor and his brother which may likely cause public disturbance especially when no protests or chaos were actually initiated after the broadcast. This mischaracterization has led to unnecessary legal and social tensions, but the details remain as they are. The charge was filed on behalf of the Kwara State Government by the Director of Public Prosecution, Ministry of Justice, Kwara State and one would wonder why a case that is supposed to be civil now turns out to be criminal but anyway the end will surely justify the means.
Thirdly, I, Suleiman Rotimi Iliasu, have resumed my professional duties after serving as a commissioner for four years. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the state during that period. Since leaving office, I have chosen to remain silent on many issues; any assumptions that I have been releasing confidential information should be entirely disregarded. If I were to share sensitive information, it would be done transparently and publicly, not behind closed doors. I operate on the principle that timing is vital and that the right moments will come should there be need to speak on my time and conduct in office.
We cannot stand idly by while hypocrisy and oppression flourish. We must challenge those who speak with forked tongues, holding them accountable for their actions. We must expose the lies and demand transparency. We must dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
This is not an easy task for me because I have chosen to be a professional in all my doings, but when decisions must be made and family name is being muddled up by people without a moral compass, courage, conviction, and a willingness to speak truth to power becomes a necessity. For only by confronting hypocrisy and fighting oppression can we build a world where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. Only then can we create a society where justice prevails, and where the promise of a better future is within reach for all.
I expect to see some kids and elders who have sold their tomorrow for peanuts to attack my person in any guise, but I pray we all have long lives to reap the fruits of our labor.
Lastly, I have moved on with my political life. I remain committed to empowering and uplifting my immediate family, friends, and political allies across different levels. No amount of political blackmail, propaganda, or smear campaigns will deter or silence me.
Hon. Suleiman Rotimi Iliasu,
former Commissioner for Works and Transport,
Taiyese of Jebba land, Tadese of Oba land
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