Alhaji Toyin Olosasa, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State and former Director-General of the Kwara Central Senatorial Election in 2011, has stirred controversy with his recent comments about Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak. In an interview with Mansur Aramide, Olosasa discussed the state's political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general election.
Governor's Popularity at Lowest Ebb
Olosasa asserted that the governor's rating has dropped significantly and that he cannot win any political position in the state again. He stated, "The people are tired of the governor. They are not tired of the APC or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu." He challenged the governor to test his popularity by contesting a councillorship position in Adewole Ward against PDP's Yinka Otukoko or even Comrade Musbau Eshinrogunjo, who is currently in prison.
According to Olosasa, the situation has become so dire that some are calling for the return of the Saraki political structure. He emphasized that the APC remains popular due to credible stakeholders, but the governor's standing has declined across key segments, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth, and women groups.
Strained Relationships Within APC
Olosasa highlighted the governor's strained relationships within the APC, including a fierce rivalry with the Saraki political structure and fallouts with major stakeholders. He noted that the governor has alienated many potential allies, damaging relationships beyond repair.
Regarding calls for his suspension from the party, Olosasa dismissed them as rumors. He stated that he remains a bona fide APC member and has not received any official suspension communication. He challenged his critics to cite any offense he has committed against the party.
Succession and Zoning Controversy
Olosasa confirmed that the governor has endorsed Yakubu Danladi as his successor, mobilizing resources toward that ambition. He described this as a desire for a godfather-godson relationship that guarantees a third term in disguise. He criticized the governor's push for zoning to Kwara North, arguing that it is not about equity but a continuation of the rivalry with the Saraki family.
He recalled that in 2019, the governor ignored calls for zoning to Kwara North when it did not serve his ambition. Now, he is pushing for it to impose a preferred candidate. Olosasa accused the governor of undermining other aspirants and de-marketing those from Kwara Central.
Ambition to Become New Godfather
Olosasa stated unequivocally that the governor wants to position himself as the new Saraki in Kwara politics. He traced the rivalry between the Saraki and AbdulRazaq families to their fathers and noted that the governor is replicating Saraki's legacies, such as building infrastructure, establishing a university, and becoming Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum. He also hinted at the governor's ambition for a senatorial seat and eventually the Senate Presidency.
Performance Assessment
While acknowledging that the governor has tried his best, Olosasa rated his performance as insufficient. He pointed to regression in development indices, particularly security, noting that Kwara has gone from one of the most peaceful states to the most terrorized. He called for a transition to new leadership and urged the Presidency to pay closer attention to Kwara's situation.
In conclusion, Olosasa maintained that the governor has not performed at a level that justifies determining his successor.
