2027: PDP targets Kwara comeback, knocks APC at Ilorin rally

The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday held a rally in Ilorin, declaring its readiness to reclaim power in the 2027 general elections.

The rally, which started at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin, drew party members and supporters from across the state.

Speaking at the event, the state chairman of the party, Isa Adamu, said the PDP had emerged stronger and more united following its recent national convention in Abuja.

He described the rally as a turning point for the party and the state.

“Today is not just another political gathering. Today is a declaration that Kwara State is ready for a new direction… that hope is alive again,” he said.

Adamu stated that the party had consolidated its internal structures, positioning itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Following our successful national convention in Abuja, our party has emerged more solid, more cohesive, and better positioned to offer Kwarans a credible and people-oriented alternative come 2027,” he added.

He said the PDP would present candidates capable of restoring what he described as good governance in the state.

The PDP chairman, however, criticised the current administration, linking the state’s challenges to what he described as governance failure since 2019.

“Since the ‘Otoge’ experiment brought accidental leaders into power, the story of our state has been that of backwardness,” he said.

Adamu also raised concerns over insecurity, alleging that killings had occurred in parts of the state in recent times.

“Insecurity has taken root in our communities. Killings and fear have become part of our daily reality,” he said.

He further faulted what he described as uneven development across the state.

“Is Kwara only about GRA? Do the lives of ordinary Kwarans not matter?” he asked.

He called for a governance approach that prioritises rural communities, farmers, and traders, while also raising concerns over alleged suppression of dissenting voices.

“A democratic society should protect the rights of its citizens to speak and demand accountability,” he said.

Adamu called on members of other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Accord Party, to join the PDP in what he described as efforts to rebuild the state.

“This is your party. Together, we can rebuild Kwara and create a government that truly serves the people,” he said.

In attendance at the rally were members of the PDP State Executive Council and other party leaders, including Engr. Kale Kawu, Hon. Saka Eletu, Hon. Amule, former Commissioner for Works, Hon. Rotimi Illiasu, and Engr. Olayinka Otukoko, among others.

The PDP governed Kwara State before losing power in the 2019 general elections to the APC under the “Otoge” movement.