My loyalty is strictly to the Emir of Ilorin, nobody else, says Jagunma
The Chairman of the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association (IEYDA), Alhaji Muhammad Uthman Jagunma, has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the Emir of Ilorin, the Emirate Council and Ilorin Emirate in general, stating that his commitment remains strictly to advancing the interests of the Emirate.
Jagunma made this statement amidst allegations and counterclaims surrounding the Kwara State Government’s purported plan to create a rival faction of IEYDA.
The controversy began after Abubakar Suleiman (Sai Kai), the Special Adviser on Political Matters to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, admitted that his office had been approached allegedly by dissatisfied members of IEYDA who proposed forming a new association. Suleiman maintained that, as a public servant, he has the duty to engage with all groups, regardless of their affiliations.
“Some IEYDA members who are not comfortable with Jagunma’s leadership came to inform me of their plans to form another association. As a public servant, I have every right to welcome anyone who comes to my office, even if Jagunma himself leads his team to meet me. My role is to listen to everyone,” Suleiman stated in an interview with Just Event Online.
He further alleged that Jagunma and some members of the IEYDA leadership are politically aligned with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of partisanship.
“I know Jagunma is a card-carrying member of the PDP, and the majority of his executives are also PDP members. They are not neutral. While I have no personal issues with IEYDA, I must point out the political leanings of its leadership,” Suleiman claimed.
Reacting to these allegations, Jagunma, also in an interview with Just Event Online, dismissed the claims of partisanship and reiterated that his allegiance lies solely with the Emir of Ilorin and the Emirate Council. He emphasized that the IEYDA is a creation of the Emir and has no political affiliation.
“My allegiance is strictly to the Emir of Ilorin, the Emirate Council, and the development of the Ilorin Emirate. The IEYDA was created to serve the interests of the Emirate, and we remain committed to that purpose. I have no political affiliations that compromise this commitment,” Jagunma stated.
He also refuted claims that he has represented Senator Saliu Mustapha in any political capacity, insisting that his engagements are centered on youth development and the betterment of the Ilorin Emirate community.
Jagunma concluded by calling for mutual respect and collaboration, stating that the focus should remain on advancing the interests of the Ilorin Emirate under the guidance of the Emir and the Emirate Council.
