The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council (IEPAC) has once again declared its endorsement of Senator Saliu Mustapha as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State. The influential socio-political body also renewed its backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's bid for a second term, describing him as the preferred presidential candidate of the Ilorin Emirate ahead of the next general elections.
This position was announced during a press conference held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. Leaders of the council reiterated their unwavering commitment to the political aspirations of both men. Speaking on behalf of the group, National Coordinator Dr. Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe, alongside National Secretary Lt. Col. Abubakar Edun (Rtd), stated that Senator Mustapha's governorship ambition has evolved into a collective project of the Ilorin Emirate.
According to the council, its support followed extensive consultations and a careful assessment of political developments ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. The group urged the senator, who currently represents Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, to explore all legitimate political avenues in pursuit of his governorship aspiration.
Collective Project for the Emirate
“The aspiration of Senator Saliu Mustapha has become a collective project of the Ilorin Emirate, and we remain committed to its actualisation,” the council stated. This latest declaration comes months after the council first publicly endorsed President Tinubu and Senator Mustapha as its preferred candidates for the presidency and governorship, respectively.
IEPAC, widely regarded as one of the most influential socio-political organisations in Kwara Central Senatorial District, said it would continue to support political arrangements and candidates capable of protecting and advancing the interests of the district within the state’s political framework.
Support for President Tinubu
Explaining its support for President Tinubu, the council pointed to what it described as the achievements of the current administration and the perceived benefits accruing to Kwara Central under his leadership. “We unanimously endorse the aspiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office and believe he deserves another four years to consolidate on the achievements recorded by his administration,” the council said.
Senator Mustapha's Qualities
On the governorship race, IEPAC described Senator Mustapha as a politician with broad acceptability, proven leadership ability, and considerable political experience. The council expressed confidence that the lawmaker possesses the competence and statewide appeal required not only to secure electoral victory but also to provide effective leadership for Kwara State.
“Senator Saliu Mustapha has demonstrated the qualities of a leader with the capacity to unite the people, win elections, and govern Kwara State justly, fairly, and competently,” the statement added.
Political Implications for 2027
The endorsement is expected to influence political calculations within Kwara State as political parties, aspirants, and stakeholders intensify consultations and strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 governorship contest. Although the election remains more than a year away, the latest declaration underscores the early maneuvering already taking place within the state’s political landscape, where alliances and endorsements are beginning to shape conversations around succession and representation.
As political activities gather momentum, attention will increasingly focus on how major political actors and interest groups align themselves in the build-up to what is expected to be a closely watched electoral cycle in Kwara State.
