Kwara APC Aspirant Makes Dramatic Exit, Endorses Rival Minutes After Declaration
In a stunning and unprecedented political development in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, declared his ambition to run for the state's top office, only to step down a mere two minutes later. The sudden withdrawal was announced in support of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari, whom Mahmud described as a better fellow aspirant, highlighting a strategic move aimed at fostering unity and addressing long-standing regional marginalization.
Background and Regional Context
Both Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, also known as Dan’iyan Kaiama, and Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari hail from the Kwara North senatorial district, a region that has historically been sidelined in the race for the governorship of Kwara State. Mahmud emphasized that for nearly three decades, Kwara North has served as a loyal supporter of other districts without ever securing the opportunity to lead, a situation he labeled as unfair and disheartening. He pointed out that since 1999, Kwara North remains the only senatorial zone yet to produce a governor, fueling widespread calls for justice and equity under the slogan Let Kwara North lead.
Reasons for the Sudden Withdrawal
Addressing a gathering of APC leaders, supporters, and journalists at an events centre along Old Offa Road in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ilorin, Mahmud explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders. He stated, Today, I step aside not in defeat, but in hope and faith that, together under Ambassador Seriki, Kwara will rise to new heights of growth, stability, and shared prosperity. His speech was met with loud applause, underscoring the emotional weight of the moment.
Mahmud further justified his withdrawal by describing it as a sacrifice for unity and progress, rather than a sign of weakness. He asserted that Kwara State needs a unifier to heal divisions and bring people together, a role he believes Ambassador Seriki is well-suited to fill. Reflecting on his own advocacy for equity, Mahmud stressed that fairness is essential for the state's unity and advancement, making his step-down a calculated move to strengthen the APC's chances in the upcoming election.
Endorsement of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari
In his endorsement, Mahmud praised Ambassador Seriki as a loyal party member with unwavering support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and alignment with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He highlighted Seriki's track record in youth empowerment, grassroots development, and community bridge-building, positioning him as a strong contender for the governorship. He is not just a qualified candidate; he is a bridge between past achievements and future possibilities, Mahmud added, emphasizing Seriki's potential to lead Kwara State effectively.
Broader Implications and Closing Remarks
This dramatic turn of events underscores the intense political dynamics within the APC in Kwara State, particularly around issues of regional representation and party cohesion. Mahmud, a former State Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noted that his decision was driven by the need for unity at a critical juncture, describing it as a rallying call rather than a retreat. He also took the opportunity to commend President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, and security agencies for their handling of the recent Woro incident, while urging continued efforts to rescue abducted victims, stating, True leadership is measured not only in policies but in compassion.
The incident has sparked discussions about political strategy and the ongoing struggle for equity in Kwara's governance, setting the stage for a potentially transformative election cycle focused on inclusivity and progress.
