2027: Kwara North battles injustice, says ‘It’s our turn to be governor’
Kwara North Calls for Governorship Consideration Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin
Kwara North, located in Nigeria’s north-central region, is advocating for political equity as it seeks the governorship position for the first time in 28 years. While Kwara Central has held the governorship office for 20 years since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999, and Kwara South for eight years, Kwara North remains without representation in the state’s highest political office.
In recent developments, elders and stakeholders from Kwara North held a press conference to emphasize their demand for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to allocate the 2027 governorship ticket to their zone. This gathering was followed by a significant rally the next day.
The press conference took place in Ilorin and included participation from four gubernatorial aspirants from Kwara North: State House of Assembly Speaker Engr. Salihu Yakubu Danladi, Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar, Alhaji Tajudeen Audu, and Hon. Umar Bio.
Pharmacist Bio Ibrahim, spokesperson for the group, stated, “It is essential for Kwarans, regardless of their senatorial zones, to unite against the politics of exclusion in Kwara state.” He pointed out the historical imbalance in political representation, arguing that it is time for Kwara North to have an opportunity to govern.
“Since 1999, Kwara Central will have held the governorship for two decades by 2027, while Kwara South has had its turn for eight years. It is critical that we rectify this imbalance,” he continued. “Kwara North deserves its chance to lead, and this call is grounded in fairness and democratic representation.”
The following day, a large crowd from Kwara North gathered at the Metropolitan Square along Asa Dam Road for what was termed the Kwara North Mega Rally. Attendees included party chieftains, traditional leaders, and political figures, all advocating for unity and political inclusion within the state.
Dr. Mahmud Umar Muhammad, a party chieftain, noted the significance of the turnout, declaring it a testament to the unity and determination of Kwara North’s residents. He affirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election and emphasized the importance of sustained unity in the region’s political aspirations.
Issa Bio Ibrahim, a former transportation minister, assured attendees that Kwara North would support Tinubu’s re-election but urged other districts to back the northern zone in its pursuit of the governorship.
Emir of Lafiagi, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Kudu, echoed the call for equity, stating that Kwara North’s absence from the governorship since 1999 warrants attention in the upcoming elections. He noted that the region has historically voted for the APC, even when alternative candidates were available.
Attendees at the rally included various APC gubernatorial aspirants from Kwara North, such as Alhaji Mohammed Mariam Alhassan and the current Senator Suleiman. Alhassan stressed the importance of rejecting exclusionary politics and maintaining a fair political process.
“We must ensure that no voices are silenced and that the future of Kwara North is determined by the collective will of the people,” he said.
The call for justice and inclusivity continues to resonate within the community as the 2027 elections approach, with Kwara North striving to secure its place in the state’s political landscape.
