BREAKING: Kwara APC stakeholders give G-15 greenlight to explore alternative political options ahead of 2027
...backs Tinubu relection bid
Elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State have authorised the party’s G15 bloc to explore alternative political options ahead of the 2027 general elections, while reaffirming their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid.
The decision was reached at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Notkel, Ilorin, where participants overwhelmingly endorsed a proposal empowering the bloc’s leadership to examine available political options and submit recommendations within one week.
The approval followed an open voice vote coordinated by former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Salman Jawondo (SAN).
The resolution came hours after the political bloc formally rebranded as The Otoge Progressives (TOP) during a stakeholders’ engagement and town hall meeting at the Arca-Santa Arena in Ilorin, where it unveiled a new name, logo and identity before thousands of supporters and political stakeholders from across the 16 local government areas of the state.
According to the group’s leaders, the rebranding reflects the movement’s expansion since its emergence in June and the need to accommodate its growing membership while promoting inclusive leadership, internal democracy and the ideals of the 2019 Otoge political movement.
Speaking at the event, the spokesperson of the movement and former Senator representing Kwara Central, Yahaya Oloriegbe, said the transition from G15 to The Otoge Progressives signified growth rather than division, stressing that the founding members remained united and committed to their shared objectives.
He said the movement had continued to attract political leaders and grassroots stakeholders across the state and was driven by collective interest rather than personal political ambition.
Oloriegbe also alleged that supporters of the movement had been subjected to intimidation, inducements and political pressure, but assured them that the leadership would remain committed to protecting their interests and pursuing its objectives.
Jawondo, in his remarks, said the movement remained committed to democratic principles and would continue to pursue its objectives through lawful and constitutional means.
The bloc also unanimously rejected candidates produced by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for elective positions across the state, alleging that they were imposed and inconsistent with the ideals of the Otoge movement.
According to the group, the candidates represent an attempt by the governor to perpetuate his influence in government beyond his constitutionally permitted two terms.
Despite opening the door to alternative political options, the stakeholders reaffirmed their loyalty to President Tinubu.
A motion moved by Senator Saliu Mustapha reaffirming a vote of confidence in the President and endorsing his re-election for a second term in 2027 received overwhelming support from participants.
Among those at the meeting were Senators Saliu Mustapha, Yahaya Oloriegbe, Sodiq Umar, Lola Ashiru, Ahmed Ahmed and Ajadi Makanjuola; former Attorney-General Barrister Salman Jawondo (SAN); Chief Dele Belgore (SAN); Ambassador Yahaya Seriki-Gambari (represented); former APC chairman Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (represented); former public office holders, party elders, women and youth leaders from across the state.
