Open letter to Gov AbdulRazaq: A lesson from Kogi
By: ADEYEMI, Daniel B
Political crises are unavoidable in democratic societies. Conflicts of interest, marginalisation, financial allegations and other political manoeuvres capable of dividing a party are common causes of leadership tussles in any political setting.
It is no longer news that the Kwara chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently facing an internal crisis, a development that appears to have affected the party’s internal democracy and cohesion.
The crisis, which has produced different caucuses within the party, was largely triggered by the primary election that produced Rt. Hon. Salihu Yakubu-Danladi as the party’s gubernatorial candidate.
The outcome of the primary election was met with disappointment by some party stakeholders, supporters and political enthusiasts, many of whom questioned the process that produced the candidate and alleged irregularities in the exercise.
Since May 2026, members of the Kwara APC have, to varying degrees, appeared divided and are no longer working together towards a common goal. Some aggrieved members have vowed to distance themselves from the affairs of the party while continuing to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
At this juncture, there is a need to close ranks, set aside political differences and embrace divergent opinions. Recent developments in Kogi State offer a useful example of how political leadership can respond to internal disagreements through dialogue and reconciliation.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State recently constituted a seven-member committee, chaired by former Governor Idris Wada, to work with relevant stakeholders towards reconciling aggrieved members of the APC in the state. The move demonstrates the value of inclusive leadership and dialogue in promoting political stability, collaboration and cohesion within a political party.
For Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, the time has come to give serious consideration to the current situation in the Kwara APC.
The Otoge political movement of 2019 was not achieved without sacrifice. Thousands of Kwarans contributed in different ways to the movement, driven by their desire for better representation and a different political direction for the state.
Those efforts should not end as a mere chapter in Kwara’s political history. They should translate into a sustainable legacy capable of strengthening governance, development and political stability across the State of Harmony.
I therefore urge Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to embrace diverse opinions and take further steps towards bringing the party together. While the committee previously constituted by the party has made efforts in this regard, the current situation calls for renewed and perhaps more deliberate engagement with all sides.
The strength of any political party lies not only in its ability to win elections, but also in its capacity to accommodate differences, resolve disagreements and keep its members united around a common purpose.
Kogi has offered one possible lesson. Kwara can choose to learn from it.
Adeyemi Daniel can be reached via +234 7039 270751 and lionofficial2015@gmali.com
