APC Chieftain Haliru Dantsoho Withdraws from Kwara 2027 Governorship Race
In a significant political development, Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race. The decision was announced during a well-attended declaration event held in Ilorin, the state capital, on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
Strategic Move to Foster Unity and Collective Progress
Dantsoho, widely known as Dan'Iya Kaiama, explained that his withdrawal stems from a strategic sacrifice aimed at fostering greater unity and collective progress across Kwara State's political landscape. The APC stalwart, who had previously been at the forefront of agitation for Kwara North to produce the next governor, stated that his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders throughout the state.
"This move represents a strategic sacrifice designed to enhance cohesion within our political environment," Dantsoho declared. "After thorough engagements across Kwara, it became clear that we urgently need a unifying figure capable of bridging divides and strengthening solidarity among our people."
Endorsement of Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari
In his withdrawal announcement, Dantsoho formally endorsed Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari as his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. He described Gambari as a loyal party member with strong grassroots appeal and a genuine commitment to developmental initiatives throughout Kwara State.
"Ambassador Gambari possesses the qualities necessary to lead Kwara toward meaningful progress," Dantsoho asserted. "His dedication to party principles and connection with ordinary citizens make him an ideal candidate to unite our diverse constituencies."
Addressing Kwara North Constituency Concerns
Recognizing potential concerns from his Kwara North political base, Dantsoho emphasized that his decision does not constitute abandonment of the district's aspirations. Instead, he framed it as a strategic maneuver to achieve those aspirations through enhanced unity and collaborative politics.
"This action should not be misinterpreted as betrayal of our cause," Dantsoho clarified. "Kwara North's opportunity is not denied but merely deferred, and it will ultimately materialize through strengthened unity across all three senatorial districts."
Commendation for Leadership and Security Response
During his declaration, Dantsoho also took the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and various security agencies for their prompt response to the recent Woro incident. He urged authorities to intensify efforts toward rescuing abducted victims and providing adequate support for affected families throughout the north-central state.
Kwara Central's Electoral Significance
Political analysts note that Kwara Central, often regarded as the "mother district" within the state, represents the largest voting bloc and typically serves as a decisive factor in governorship elections. This demographic reality likely influenced Dantsoho's strategic calculation to endorse a candidate from this crucial region.
Related Political Developments
In a separate but related development, young entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprise leaders in Kwara State, operating under the banner of Corporate Kwara, have pledged to purchase the APC gubernatorial nomination form for Senator Saliu Mustapha ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group made this commitment during a courtesy visit to the senator's office in Ilorin on Sunday, April 5. Mallam Abdulmajeed Olayinka Idilobe, coordinator of the forum, announced that members have allocated a minimum of ₦100 million specifically for acquiring the APC nomination form, demonstrating significant grassroots financial support for Mustapha's potential candidacy.
These unfolding developments suggest an increasingly dynamic political landscape in Kwara State as various factions and interest groups position themselves strategically ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. Dantsoho's withdrawal and endorsement represent a calculated effort to consolidate support behind a single strong candidate from Kwara Central, potentially reshaping the competitive dynamics within the ruling APC.
