A former supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Saheed Popoola, has expressed regret over his role in the political struggle against former Senate President Bukola Saraki, alleging that politicians deliberately linked the former governor to the deadly Offa bank robbery to settle political scores.
Popoola, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Kwara South, made the disclosure during the party’s campaign tour of the district led by Saraki.
Speaking at the palace of the Olofa of Offa, Popoola said he regretted supporting the O To Ge movement, which played a major role in ending Saraki’s political dominance in Kwara State.
He claimed that some political actors made allegations against Saraki out of political bitterness rather than genuine concerns about the Offa robbery.
“I regret fighting Saraki because I was misinformed during the O To Ge struggle,” he said.
Popoola also questioned the suggestion that Saraki sponsored the robbery, arguing that the former Senate President had no financial incentive to be involved.
He described the renewed attention given to the robbery allegations as politically motivated.
The Kwara State Government is prosecuting Saraki over alleged involvement in the robbery, which claimed more than 25 lives, including police officers.
Popoola’s comments, however, represent his personal claims and do not determine the legal issues before the court.
Also speaking, Chief Gbenga Awoyale, convener of Orisun Igbomina and a prominent figure in the O To Ge campaign, admitted regretting his previous political activities.
Awoyale said he had joined others in mobilising support for the APC but was now disappointed with the direction of the state.
He called for resistance against the present administration, citing insecurity and the alleged abandonment of several communities.
According to him, more than 30 traditional rulers had abdicated their thrones because of insecurity, while 25 communities had become deserted.
Saraki, while addressing the traditional ruler, recalled his intervention during the selection and enthronement of the Olofa in 2010.
He said he had supported the monarch despite pressure from other quarters and appealed for reciprocal support for the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former Senate President assured the community that a PDP government would prioritise Offa’s development.
Meanwhile, Saraki donated ₦50 million towards resolving Offa’s longstanding electricity crisis.
The intervention is expected to support the replacement of ageing electricity cables reportedly installed about 55 years ago.
Residents have complained that the obsolete infrastructure limits electricity supply to between two and three hours daily, affecting businesses and households.
The Olofa, in his response, urged residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate in the 2027 general elections.
