The Archbishop of Kwara Anglican Province, Most Rev. Israel Amoo, on Saturday, delivered a stern rebuke to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, lamenting the harsh conditions faced by pensioners and the worsening state of rural roads across the state.
The outspoken cleric, known for his candour and moral courage, made the remarks during the funeral service of the late Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, former Governor of Kwara State, held at All Saints’ Anglican Church, Oke-Onigbin.
Delivering his sermon in the presence of the Governor and other dignitaries, Bishop Amoo decried the neglect of those who had served the state faithfully but are now dying in silence and poverty.
“Your Excellency, Mr Governor, pensioners in Kwara State are suffering. They are suffering and dying in penury,” the emotional Bishop declared.
“People who served this state and retired since 2019, 2020, 2021 — up till 2025 — are still waiting for their gratuities. When will they be paid? This is unfair, Mr Governor. Before we end this service, we will call you out to make a commitment to these people.”
The entire congregation erupted in thunderous applause, commending the Bishop’s courage to speak truth to power before the Governor, insisting that the church must remain a voice for the voiceless.
Bishop Amoo further condemned the poor state of road infrastructure in Oke-Onigbin and other parts of Kwara South, describing it as both an economic burden and a security threat.
“The road to this town is a nightmare. I believe your convoy plied the same road to this place, and you must have seen how terrible it is. It has become an obstacle to the fight against banditry and kidnapping. How can security forces from Ilorin respond swiftly to emergencies when the roads are this bad?” he queried.
Turning solemn, the Archbishop reminded Governor Abdulrazaq of the transient nature of power, urging him to act with conscience and humanity.
“I pray you live long, Mr Governor,” he said pointedly, “but remember — you too will die one day. Let what people will say about you on that day guide your actions today.”
The sermon left the church in deep reflection. Governor Abdulrazaq, visibly shaken, was seen adjusting uneasily in his seat as his aides exchanged nervous glances amid the echo of the Bishop’s words that filled the church with conviction and truth.
