The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council (IEPAC) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 presidential election. The council also declared Senator Saliu Mustapha as its preferred candidate for the Kwara State governorship race.
Endorsement Announced in Ilorin
During a press conference held on Tuesday, April 28, in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, IEPAC's National Coordinator, Dr. Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe, alongside the group's secretary, retired Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Edun, read a statement outlining the council's decisions. The endorsement followed what the council described as careful deliberation and assessment of aspirants for key political offices ahead of the next general elections.
IEPAC, comprising elders and stakeholders from Ilorin Emirate in the Kwara Central Senatorial District, emphasized its commitment to supporting candidates and platforms that would secure the district's rightful place in the state's political structure.
Reasons for Backing Tinubu
The council cited President Tinubu's administration's performance over the past three years as the primary reason for its endorsement. It highlighted specific projects and support that have benefited Kwara Central. The statement read, "We unanimously endorse the aspiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office." The council believes that another four-year term would allow the president to consolidate his achievements.
Support for Saliu Mustapha
In the governorship race, IEPAC endorsed Senator Saliu Mustapha, citing his broad acceptance across the state and his experience. The council noted that Mustapha possesses the maturity, experience, and exposure required to win the election and govern the state fairly and competently. This early endorsement comes as political consultations quietly gain momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, despite the contest being months away.
Inclusivity and Unity
IEPAC clarified that its endorsement of Mustapha does not exclude other governorship aspirants. The council urged unity among political actors across Kwara, especially within major political parties, to align with its position for the sake of stability. It also stated that it would continue to monitor political developments and could support other aspirants capable of sustaining the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Previous Support for Mustapha
In related developments, young entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprise leaders in Kwara State, under the group Corporate Kwara, had earlier pledged to purchase the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial nomination form for Senator Saliu Mustapha. The group set aside a minimum of 100 million naira for the form, demonstrating significant grassroots support for his candidacy.
