2027: Kwara PDP opts for consensus as 5 gubernatorial aspirants sign pact

Five governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party in Kwara State have agreed to adopt a consensus arrangement ahead of the 2027 elections, declaring that party unity must take precedence over personal ambition.

The aspirants reached the decision after what they described as “extensive, productive, and cordial deliberations” held at the Maitama residence of party leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki over the weekend.

In a joint agreement signed by Ali Ahmad, Omar Bolaji Gambari, Ladi Hassan, Olaseni Ibiwoye, SAN, and Kale Kawu, the aspirants said, “the overall interest of the party and its success in the 2027 elections are more important than our individual ambitions.”

They added, “in order to avoid unnecessary division, conserve time and resources, strengthen party unity, and enter the campaign season as one cohesive team, we have agreed to recommend a consensus arrangement for the selection of the party’s gubernatorial candidate.”

The aspirants urged the party leadership to oversee the process “in line with democratic principles and the provisions of the Electoral Act (2026).”

They also pledged loyalty to the eventual outcome of the process, stating, “we jointly affirm our commitment to accept the decision of the party leadership, and we pledge our full support to whoever emerges as the party’s gubernatorial flagbearer.”

According to them, consultations have already begun across the state to sensitise supporters on the decision.

“We have commenced consultations with our supporters across the state to communicate our voluntary decision to support the consensus arrangement and to encourage total support for the eventual candidate,” they said.

The aspirants further assured that efforts would be sustained to maintain unity within the party.

“We will continue to engage our supporters directly and through appropriate media channels to ensure that nothing is done to undermine this collective agreement,” the statement read.

They also called for divine guidance as the process unfolds, saying, “as we await the decision of the party leadership, we pray that Almighty God grants wisdom and guidance in making the right decisions regarding this and other matters relating to the 2027 elections.”