Your Days numbered, Offa Community says, Rejects Odu Chairman’s statement
ODU is not your personal property—- Group fumes….
Leaders and residents of Offa Local Government Area (LGA) have officially distanced themselves from remarks made by Chief Tajudeen Lanre Shittu, the Chairman of the Home branchOffa Descendants Union (ODU). During a recent press conference, Shittu expressed views regarding the Kwara State High Court’s judgment on the infamous Offa robbery case, which the community now claims do not reflect their sentiments.
In a statement released today, the Offa Koya – Offa Kowosi Group, comprised of various community leaders and indigenes, criticized Shittu for allegedly using the ODU platform for personal political gain. They accused him of acting under the influence of political figures, claiming that his statements aimed to manipulate the community’s stance on an extraordinary judicial matter.
The group’s chairman, Kunle Afolayan, condemned Shittu’s call for further investigations into the Offa robbery case, asserting that the recent sentencing of convicted suspects as a result of thorough police work was a form of justice long awaited by the community. Afolayan emphasized that the community stands in solidarity with law enforcement and the judiciary’s efforts to deliver justice, stating, “The police did a thorough and transparent investigation…bringing closure to the affected families and restoring peace to our community.”
Speaking on the controversy, Afolayan remarked that Shittu’s actions seemed to derive from ulterior motives linked to ambitions for a House of Representatives ticket in the upcoming 2027 elections “Shittu swallowed the bait having been promised a political appointment,” he asserted.
The Offa Koya – Offa Kowosi Group condemned the ODU chairman’s approach as a calculated maneuver to smear the reputation of influential individuals in the community, declaring: “His willingness to denigrate the community for personal aggrandizement is reprehensible.”
In the statement, the group called for Shittu’s resignation from his position as ODU chairman, urging him to pursue his political interests directly, rather than purportedly representing the community while engaging in controversial political maneuvers. They stated, “We reject the exploitative tactics employed by some state political actors… The ODU chairman’s quest for the House of Representatives ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC) does not grant him license to use Offa as a bargaining chip.”
The community has voiced its determination to protect its interests and prevent further political exploitation, viewing the press conference as a misrepresentation of their collective viewpoint. They concluded their statement by urging those in political power to focus on the pressing issues facing the state instead of diverting attention to historical grievances.
As the situation unfolds, Offa residents and leaders remain resolute in their commitment to justice and the integrity of their community.
