The All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus in Kwara North has firmly rejected calls for the zoning of the state’s governorship position ahead of the 2027 election, insisting that merit, competence, and proven capacity must guide the selection of the next governor.
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In a statement issued after a meeting on Wednesday in Ilorin, the caucus emphasised that independence, credibility, and the ability to deliver effective governance should take precedence over sectional or ethnic considerations.
The stakeholders, drawn from Edu, Patigi, Moro, Kiama, and Baruten Local Government Areas, also declared their support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term agenda.
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Malam Lukman Sabi-Musa, leader of the Kwara North APC caucus, addressed journalists on behalf of the group. He announced their backing for Dr. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, popularly known as BOB, as the preferred candidate for the governorship race.
According to him, Dr. Bolarinwa played a significant role in the historic “O to Ge” movement that swept the All Progressives Congress to power in Kwara State and possesses valuable experience in governance.
While acknowledging the legitimate aspiration of Kwara North to produce the next governor, the caucus stressed that such ambitions must not supersede the need for competent leadership.
“The ultimate objective of governance is not merely to produce a governor based on origin, but to ensure purposeful leadership that will uplift our region and the entire state,” Malam Sabi-Musa said.
The caucus distanced itself from recent press statements and rallies organised by some individuals claiming to represent Kwara North in support of zoning.
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It described these actions as “hastily-organised” and alleged that they were driven by personal lobbying efforts rather than genuine regional interest.
The group further claimed that some traditional and religious leaders were allegedly coerced into attending the rallies through the use of state resources.
Malam Sabi-Musa expressed concern that leadership influenced by external pressures might lack the independence required to deliver meaningful development.
Read the related story on New Daily Prime: Kwara APC group rejects zoning of 2027 Govt ticket, calls for competence
He pointed out that despite years of representation at state and national levels, parts of Kwara North continue to experience limited developmental impact, highlighting the urgent need for more capable and effective leaders.
The caucus maintained that governance should rise above ethnic, tribal, or sectional lines. “The focus must remain on competence and capacity qualities that not only win elections but also guarantee inclusive governance and equitable development across the state,” it added.
Stakeholders reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt tangibly and distributed evenly throughout Kwara State.
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