ILORIN, Nigeria (AP) — A fresh wave of political tension erupted on Thursday after remarks credited to Senator Lola Ashiru drew sharp criticism from concerned groups, who described his comments as “inflammatory” and “divisive.”....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement issued to journalists in Ilorin, the group expressed disappointment over Ashiru’s recent remarks, which they said undermined peace and unity in the state. “We received the inflammatory comments by Arc. Lola Ashiru with great disappointment, but unfortunately not with astonishment,” the statement read in part.

The group accused the senator of using public platforms to make statements capable of stirring political hostility ahead of upcoming elections. According to them, the remarks were “unbecoming of a public official” and could further polarize communities that have long struggled to maintain political stability.

Ashiru, who represents Kwara South in the National Assembly, was said to have made the controversial remarks during a local gathering last week, where he reportedly criticized opposition figures and questioned their contributions to the region’s development.

The statement further urged political leaders to exercise restraint in their speeches and avoid language that could provoke tension or misunderstanding among their supporters.

“As a senator of the Federal Republic, one would expect Ashiru to promote harmony, not hostility,” the group said. “Kwara deserves leaders who speak for unity, not division.”

The critics also called on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to caution its members against making statements that could destabilize the state’s political atmosphere.

Political observers in Ilorin said the controversy highlights the fragile relationship among leading figures in Kwara politics, where loyalty battles and leadership ambitions have frequently caused friction.

Dr. Musa Olayemi, a political analyst at the University of Ilorin, said inflammatory remarks often escalate into deeper political rifts in the state. “In Kwara politics, words carry weight. When senior politicians make such statements, it can quickly translate into rivalry on the ground,” Olayemi said. “This is why public officials must always choose their words carefully.”

Despite the backlash, Senator Ashiru has not issued an official response as of Friday morning. However, his aides told local media that his comments were “taken out of context” and that he had no intention of causing division.

The aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, insisted that the senator’s speech was “a call for accountability and improved governance,” not an attack on any individual or group.

Meanwhile, residents of Kwara South have urged both parties to prioritize development over political disputes. Several community leaders appealed for calm, warning that political disagreements should not derail ongoing projects or affect the region’s social peace.

“Our people are more interested in jobs, schools, and better roads than political quarrels,” said Chief Ibrahim Oladele, a traditional leader in Omu-Aran. “We expect our leaders to talk about progress, not insults.”

Analysts say the controversy may fade in the coming days if both sides avoid further confrontation. Still, the incident serves as another reminder of the growing political tension across parts of Nigeria as the nation prepares for another election cycle.