Emir of Ilorin denies alleged rift with Kwara State Governor

The Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has refuted claims of discord between himself and the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as suggested in a recent report.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Arowona Abdulazeez, the Emir emphasized that his relationship with the governor remains harmonious, describing it as akin to that of a father and son.

“The bond between the Emir of Ilorin and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is solid and marked by mutual respect,” the statement read. “Governor AbdulRazaq has consistently demonstrated competence as a leader and respect for the Traditional Rulers Council in the state through regular consultations and support for royal institutions.”

The statement specifically addressed an article published in THISDAY newspaper titled “Who Will Settle the Cold War Between Emir of Ilorin and Kwara Governor?”. It dismissed the report as baseless and accused it of attempting to sow discord between the Emirate and the state government.

Dr. Muritala Abdulraheem, the Emir’s personal assistant, further clarified that the governor has always shown deep respect and unwavering support for the Emir. He stated, “Since assuming office, Governor AbdulRazaq has treated the Emir with utmost regard, consistently maintaining a cordial relationship. The Emir, in turn, holds the governor in high esteem as the state’s leader.”

He added that the governor frequently prioritizes visits to the Emir, even amidst a demanding schedule as chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum. “Whenever the Emir requests a meeting, the governor often insists on personally visiting the Emir instead,” Abdulraheem explained.

The controversy surrounding a visa to Germany was also addressed. According to the palace, while the Emir received his visa, some of his aides were denied due to missing documentation. Upon learning of this, the governor swiftly facilitated alternative arrangements through the French Embassy for a Schengen visa. However, due to scheduling conflicts, the Emir chose to travel to Turkiye for urgent medical needs, a decision fully supported and facilitated by the governor.

“From providing chartered flights to ensuring the Emir’s allowances were paid, the governor demonstrated unwavering care throughout the process,” the statement highlighted.

The palace condemned the THISDAY article as “frivolous and uncharitable,” asserting that an investigation is underway to identify the source of the misinformation.

The newspaper has since retracted the story, admitting it was based on inaccurate information. An editor’s note accompanying the retraction offered an unreserved apology to both the Emir and the governor, urging the public to disregard the initial report.

The palace reiterated that the relationship between the Emirate and the Kwara State Government remains harmonious, emphasizing, “Nothing can alter the peaceful coexistence and collaborative synergy between the palace and Government House.”