Competence, not sentiments, should define leadership — Kwara stakeholders
Political stakeholders in Kwara State have stressed the need to prioritize competence and credibility in the choice of leaders, warning that the reliance on ethnic or religious sentiments will only derail the state’s progress.
This formed part of the discussions at the Leadership Series organised by One Kwara Agenda, a civic advocacy movement championing merit-based leadership ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Bakare Talabi, a Professor of Politics and Governance, observed that Nigeria’s overemphasis on ethno-religious considerations in politics has consistently undermined good governance and national stability.
He explained that while inclusiveness is important in a diverse society, it must not come at the expense of competence.
“When leaders are chosen for reasons other than capacity, society as a whole pays the price. We must learn from global examples where merit-based leadership has driven stability and development,” Talabi said.
He further urged Kwarans to resist ethnic campaigners and sectional agitators, whom he described as using identity politics as a disguise for personal ambition.
In his contribution, the convener of One Kwara Agenda, Hon. Femi Adetola (popularly known as Dr. FAA), said the initiative was established to redirect conversations in Kwara politics away from zoning and sectional claims toward merit and accountability.
According to him, the growing clamour for zoning of the governorship seat across the three senatorial districts must not overshadow the more urgent need to secure competent leadership for sustainable development.
“Our future as a state depends on the quality of leaders we produce. Competence, not sentiment, should be the defining factor for 2027 and beyond,” he added.
