Kwara North APC Caucus Disowns Calls for Governorship Shift, Insists on Fair Play
In a significant political development, the Kwara North APC Caucus has publicly distanced itself from recent calls to cede the next governorship of Kwara State to the North senatorial district, firmly advocating for fair play and competence-based leadership in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Rejection of Regional Sentiment
Barely 24 hours after monarchs, political stakeholders, and community leaders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) urged other senatorial districts to support a Kwara North governor, prominent members from the same region have rejected this plea. The caucus clarified that recent press statements and a Tuesday mega rally in Ilorin, which promoted the shift, do not reflect its official position or the true wishes of stakeholders in Kwara North.
In a press release jointly signed by representatives from Edu, Patigi, Moro, Kaiama, and Baruten Local Government Areas, the group emphasized that while they desire a governor from Kwara North, such ambition must be driven by competence, independence, and the ability to deliver real development. They argued that leadership should not be solely about regional sentiment but must focus on effective governance that benefits the entire state.
Concerns Over Development Impact
The caucus expressed deep concern over what it described as a pattern of leadership that has failed to deliver sufficient development impact over the years, despite long-standing political representation from the region at various government levels. This, they stated, necessitates serious reflection on the type of leadership the region should support moving forward.
Additionally, the politicians alleged that some individuals used political influence to mobilize support, including applying pressure on traditional and religious leaders and political stakeholders to attend the recent rally. They maintained that "governance should be based on competence, credibility, and proven capacity, not ethnic or sectional interests."
Endorsement of Bolarinwa
Following due consultations, the group declared its support for Alhaji Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (B.O.B), describing him as a seasoned politician with extensive experience in both legislative and executive roles. They highlighted his involvement in the "0 to Ge" political movement as part of his political track record and acceptance within the party structure.
The caucus rejected attempts to misrepresent its position, insisting that the people of Kwara North remain focused on leadership that will bring visible development and fair distribution of democratic benefits. They called on party members and stakeholders across Kwara State to support a leadership choice based on unity, competence, and development, while reaffirming their backing for Bolarinwa's 2027 governorship ambition.
