Gerin fm 95.5 Ilorin - News & Events

For the past ten days, the usual political noise in Kwara State has been replaced by a sense of communal solidarity. Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki recently concluded a nearly two-week stay in his home state, marking the start of Ramadan and Lent by reconnecting with the people in a way that felt more like a neighbor than a former Senate President.

The visit was centered around the #IftarWithSaraki initiative, which turned his Ilorin residence into a bustling hub of activity. Each evening, thousands of residents—regardless of age or religion—gathered to break their fast together. What could have been a formal affair instead felt like a massive community gathering, complete with shared meals, prayers, and open conversations about the future of Kwara.

However, the outreach started well before the first prayer was said. Recognizing the current economic hardships, Saraki deployed over ten truckloads of food and essential groceries across all 16 local government areas. These supplies were distributed strategically to ensure that the most vulnerable families had what they needed to observe the holy season with dignity.

The stay wasn't just about the gatherings in the capital, either. In a show of support for those facing tragedy, Saraki sent a high-powered delegation to the Woro community following a devastating bandit attack. By reaching out to the victims and the local palace, he signaled that his commitment to the state's security and welfare remains a priority, even without an official government title.

Local leaders, artisans, and transport unions have spent the week voicing their appreciation, noting that Saraki’s presence offered a much-needed sense of stability. According to a statement from the state PDP, this 10-day stay was a reminder of "leadership beyond politics"—a consistent effort to show up for the community during its most significant moments of reflection and hardship.

As the 10-day initiative wraps up, the message left behind in Kwara is clear: for Saraki, staying connected to the grassroots is about more than just a political cycle; it’s about being present when it matters most.