A group, the Kwara Rights Agenda, has faulted those criticising a former governor of the state and senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, over the Sallah Day stampede in Ilorin that led to the death of some people.

The group, in a statement by its Coordinator, Barrister Babafemi Ifedayo, said rather than criticise Saraki over last Wednesday’s tragedy, he should be praised for sustaining a legacy of giving instituted by his late father and Second Republic Senate Leader, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki.

Ifedayo said it was unfortunate that there was a stampede during this year’s Sallah benevolence by the Sarakis and the ruling party in the state, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His words: “Unfortunately, this sad and unfortunate incident falls into the political schemings of some disgruntled elements who, instead of mourning the dead, want to take advantage of the situation to rubbish the good deeds of a man whose watchword has been service to his people.

“This programme, unlike the impression being given by these opportunists, has been in existence for years without any untoward development.”

Ifedayo added that the benevolence at Sallah is not the only time the Sarakis give as they do render assistance to people all year round.

He said: “Those who want to capitalise on this unfortunate development will not remember that the Sarakis, right from the early days of late Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki, have been giving scholarships to different categories of students, sending thousands of people on pilgrimage, feeding the hungry and housing the homeless.

“While we pray for the repose of the souls of the dead, we also urge those trying to make political capital out of the development to have a rethink and not discourage a man who has been doing all in his powers to empower his people.”

•Photo shows Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki.