Don’t gift leadership, Kwara central APC elders reject Kwara north endorsement
The Kwara Central Advancement Elders’ Forum has reiterated its call for the Kwara Central Senatorial District to retain the governorship seat come 2027, citing the zone’s significant electoral strength, political consistency, and record of proven leadership.
Speaking during a press conference at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Ilorin, the forum’s chairman, Arc. Akanbi Lamidi, stated that Kwara Central remains the most populous and politically dynamic senatorial district in the state, comprising Ilorin West, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Asa Local Government Areas.
“With over 40% of the state’s total voting population and a consistent record of electoral delivery, Kwara Central has always played a pivotal role in shaping the political direction of Kwara,” Lamidi noted.
He added that the district’s support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) was instrumental in electing Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, whose administration they described as “performing and inclusive.”
The forum strongly criticized a recent endorsement by a group backing Kwara North for the 2027 governorship, labeling the statement “political mischief and misrepresentation.” The elders argued that such declarations, made without broad-based consultation or consensus, risk dividing the party and misleading the public.
“Leadership should be earned, not gifted,” Lamidi stressed. “It must be based on capacity, political structure, loyalty, and a proven ability to win elections — not simply on regional agitation.”
Citing Governor Abdulrazaq’s accomplishments across all three senatorial zones, the forum highlighted key infrastructure and social development projects in Kwara North, including the construction of strategic roads, rural electrification, water projects, improved healthcare facilities, school renovations, and ICT hubs. These, they said, demonstrate the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance.
The elders urged both state and national leadership of the APC to remain focused on unity and electoral strength, while ignoring divisive rhetoric. They reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Abdulrazaq and expressed confidence in his leadership, warning against political narratives aimed at undermining the facts for personal ambitions.
“Kwara Central has not only demonstrated capacity and commitment to governance but has also proven itself as a reliable engine for electoral victory,” the forum concluded. “If the governorship is to remain within the zone, we believe it is a justified and strategic decision for the continued progress of Kwara State.”
