PDP Condemns APC’s Move to Block Key Business Areas in Ilorin, Calls it Economic Sabotage

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has strongly condemned the decision of the Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq-led All Progressives Congress (APC) government to erect walls in key business areas such as Challenge, Unity, Post Office, and other vital commercial zones in Ilorin metropolis.

In a statement issued by the state chairman of the PDP, Babatunde Mohammed, the opposition party described the move as “an act of economic sabotage” and a deliberate attempt to harm the livelihoods of the poor masses and young entrepreneurs who depend on these areas for their businesses.

“The 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 statement read.

The PDP expressed solidarity with the victims, particularly the young business owners whose operations have been severely disrupted by the erection of the walls. “We sympathize deeply with all those affected by this oppressive action and assure them that if elected in 2027, a PDP-led government will prioritize the immediate removal of these barriers, restoring access and opportunities for businesses to thrive.”

The party also highlighted the concerns of young entrepreneurs who have expressed their frustration over the decision, especially in areas considered the largest business hubs in Ilorin. “The erection of these thoughtless 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,” the PDP emphasized.

Criticizing the APC administration, the party called the policy “callous” and “despotic,” pointing out that it ignored years of hard work, personal sacrifices, and loans invested by the affected business owners. “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 a reckless, anti-people policy.”

The PDP further urged security agencies to act responsibly and protect the rights of protesting entrepreneurs, warning that unchecked, the action could escalate tensions and contribute to rising violence and criminal activities in Ilorin as young people lose their sources of income.

“We call on security agencies to rise above the governor’s recklessness and ensure the safety and rights of the protesting youth entrepreneurs,” the PDP statement said. “While we urge 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 executive rascality and dismantle all structures erected to suppress economic growth and strangle the poor masses.”