The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has suspended one of its governorship aspirants, Ladi Hassan, over allegations of anti-party activities and gross misconduct, just months ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Background of the Suspension
The suspension was announced on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, by the ward executive committee of Magaji Ngeri ward in Ilorin West Local Government Area. According to reports from Premium Times and Business Day, the committee accused Hassan of engaging in acts that violated the party's constitution and code of conduct.
Hassan was pronounced as the governorship candidate on Sunday, May 31, by the Tanimu Turaki faction of the PDP. This came after the state chapter, aligned with the Nyesom Wike-led faction, nominated Suleiman Kawu for the same position under a consensus arrangement allegedly brokered by former Kwara Governor Bukola Saraki.
Details of the Allegations
In a suspension letter dated June 2, 2026, signed by ward chairman Aliyu Kolawole, ward secretary, and chairman of the ward disciplinary committee Taofeek Jimba, the party stated that Hassan had earlier been issued a query on May 30 detailing allegations of anti-party activities. He was directed to appear before a seven-member disciplinary committee within 48 hours.
The ward leadership noted that Hassan acknowledged receipt of the query but failed to honor the invitation. This failure, according to the committee, amounted to an admission of guilt. The letter read: "As stated in the said letter, you were directed to appear before a seven-man committee set up by the Ward Executive Committee within 48 hours of receipt. Your failure to comply constitutes an admission of guilt of anti-party activities, acts of indiscipline, and gross misconduct."
One-Month Suspension
Citing Sections 57 and 59(1) of the PDP constitution, the committee imposed a one-month suspension on Hassan from all party activities and functions, effective immediately. The sanction prohibits him from participating in meetings, programs, and activities of the party at ward, local government, state, and national levels during the period. The committee also warned that non-compliance could lead to further disciplinary actions.
Hassan's Reaction
When contacted, Hassan dismissed the suspension as laughable, asking, "How can you suspend someone who does not belong to your group?" He stated that he would address the media at the appropriate time to brief Nigerians on the entire situation.
Political Context
The development deepens the crisis within the Kwara PDP, which has been factionalized. Earlier, supporters of the PDP celebrated in parts of Ilorin after Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq endorsed Ambassador Abdulfatah Yahaya Seriki-Gambari as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC). PDP supporters took to the streets, viewing this as a favorable political development for the opposition.
This suspension adds another layer of complexity to the already tense political landscape in Kwara State as the 2027 elections approach.
