Kwara artisans urge ODU president to join 2027 guber race
Artisans and traders across Kwara State have called on the President of the Offa Descendants Union, Alhaji Muideen Salako, to contest the 2027 governorship election, describing him as a grassroots leader whose life reflects the struggles and aspirations of ordinary citizens.
The appeal was made by the State Coordinator of the artisans’ group, Alhaji Sulaiman Babatunde Akanbi, who said Salako, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress, possesses the experience and capacity needed to reposition the state for sustainable development.
Akanbi noted that Salako’s rise from humble beginnings as a roadside motorcycle mechanic and truck driver to a successful entrepreneur and community leader distinguishes him in a political space often shaped by privilege.
“Alhaji Muideen Salako is one of us. He understands the pain of ordinary Kwarans because he has lived it. His story is rooted in real-life struggle, resilience, and hard work,” he said.
He added that Salako’s academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Forensic Accounting and Audit, alongside decades of leadership experience, place him in a strong position to manage the complexities of governance.
The group also cited his leadership as Global President of the Offa Descendants Union, highlighting his role in advancing community development, diaspora engagement, and grassroots mobilisation.
They further referenced his position as Director General of the Federation of Artisans, Associations and Traders for Asiwaju and Shettima during the 2023 general elections, where he coordinated support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu among artisans and traders.
“He has remained steadfast in his support for the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. During the 2023 elections, he ensured artisans and traders were mobilised and represented,” Akanbi added.
According to the group, Kwara requires leadership grounded in practical economic understanding. They pointed to Salako’s philanthropic activities through the Ola Salako Foundation, as well as his background in business, agriculture, and public service, as evidence of his readiness.
“He has created jobs, built businesses, and supported communities. He understands what it takes to grow an economy from the ground up. This is the kind of leadership Kwara needs at this critical time,” he said.
The artisans also cited his policy focus on security, infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment as a sign of preparedness rather than mere ambition.
They urged him to heed calls from stakeholders across the state and present himself for service, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver inclusive governance.
“Leadership is about service and responsibility. We believe Alhaji Muideen Salako has what it takes to lead Kwara to a new phase of development,” the statement concluded.
