PROF. ALI AHMAD EXPRESSES DEEP CONCERN OVER OFFA EXPLOSIONS, CALLS FOR CALM, TRANSPARENCY, AND A NEW SECURITY DIRECTION FOR KWARA
“With a deep sense of concern, I express my heartfelt sympathy to the people of Offa, affected families, and the entire Offa community over the disturbing explosion incident that occurred within the town.”
Prof. Ali Ahmad, former Speaker of the 8th Kwara State House of Assembly and Professor of Constitutional Law, described the reported explosions in Offa, which occurred in the late hours of Thursday, 25th December 2025, as a troubling development that momentarily disrupted the peace, safety, and sense of security of residents of the historic town. He noted that Offa, known for its resilience, enterprise, and communal harmony under the revered leadership of His Royal Majesty, Oba Muftau Muhammad Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, the Olofa of Offa, did not deserve such an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
“Incidents of this nature, regardless of their cause, leave deep emotional and psychological effects on ordinary citizens. My thoughts and prayers are with every resident whose peace was shaken by this unfortunate occurrence.”
Prof. Ahmad acknowledged the prompt response of security agencies and urged them to sustain their efforts while ensuring that investigations into the incident are thorough, transparent, and promptly communicated to the public. According to him, clarity and openness are essential in preventing misinformation and restoring public confidence.
He further called on the Governor of Kwara State to address the people of the state, particularly the residents of Offa, with clear information, reassurance, and a firm commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Prof. Ahmad noted that at moments of public anxiety, visible leadership and direct communication from the government are critical in restoring confidence and calming public fears.
He expressed solidarity with His Royal Majesty, Oba Muftau Muhammad Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, the Offa Traditional Council, and community leaders, noting that traditional institutions remain critical partners in maintaining peace, stability, and community trust.
Prof. Ahmad observed that the Offa incident reflects a broader concern about security across communities in Kwara State, stressing that safety remains a fundamental responsibility of government and not a matter of chance or seasonal reaction.
He emphasized that Offa occupies a strategic place in the social and economic life of Kwara State and therefore deserves continuous attention, reassurance, and adequate protection. He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders to remain calm, united, and law-abiding while investigations continue.
He further urged the government to treat the incident as a wake-up call to strengthen community-based security architecture and crisis-response mechanisms across the state, noting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through responsible leadership, proactive planning, and inclusive governance.
Concluding, Prof. Ahmad prayed for divine protection over Offa and all communities in Kwara State, asking God to grant peace, safety, and stability to the land, and to console all those affected by the incident.
Signed
Sa’ad Ayinde
Media Assistant to Prof. Ali Ahmad
Former Speaker, 8th Kwara State House of Assembly