Ilorin-based Social Worker, Olaide Ahli, has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State to desist from hostile campaign tactics and political mockery of vulnerable citizens.
Ahli, who is President of Kwara Development Group (KDG), made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ilorin while reacting to reported incidents involving persons with disabilities in the state.
According to him, persons with disabilities deserve respect and protection, not attacks and ridicule.
He referenced the allegation by Balqees Abdulqadri Romeo, Chairperson of the APC Women with Disabilities Forum, who claimed that PDP supporters attacked her and members of her group at Omoda Roundabout on Oct. 10 during the APC women’s rally.
Ahli said the allegation deserves serious attention and should be investigated by relevant authorities.
He also expressed concern over a video circulating on social media, reportedly involving a vulnerable woman around Alapata in Baboko Ward, Ilorin, which has triggered criticism over the alleged use of a person’s condition for political propaganda.
The social worker further faulted the reported response of a PDP chieftain on social media, who allegedly justified the conduct by claiming the opposition did worse in 2019.
He warned that politics without humanity is an embarrassment to democracy, stressing that no political ambition is worth sacrificing the dignity of another person.
“Let this serve as a clear warning to Kwara PDP and every political actor: stop using vulnerable citizens for political propaganda. Political disagreements should be settled through ideas, policies and the ballot box, not through humiliation of people who deserve compassion and protection,” he said.
Ahli noted that such conduct, if established, could damage a party’s public image, as residents familiar with the woman would expect concern for her welfare rather than mockery.
He urged all political parties in the state to prioritise development, responsible leadership and protection of the dignity of every citizen.
