The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council has reaffirmed its support for Senator Saliu Mustapha as the preferred candidate for the 2027 Kwara State governorship election. This endorsement was announced during a press conference held in Ilorin on Sunday, June 7.
Endorsement Details
The council, speaking through its National Coordinator Dr Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe and National Secretary Lt Col Abubakar Edun (retd.), stated that Senator Mustapha's ambition has become a shared objective within the emirate. The group pledged to continue supporting efforts to realize this goal and encouraged the lawmaker to explore all legitimate political avenues as preparations for the next election intensify.
Support for President Tinubu
In addition to the governorship endorsement, the council also declared its support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid, citing his administration's achievements and benefits to Kwara Central. The group expressed confidence that Tinubu deserves a second term to consolidate on these accomplishments.
The council praised Mustapha's political experience and leadership qualities, expressing confidence in his ability to unite diverse interests across the state. According to the statement, Senator Mustapha has demonstrated the capacity to lead, win elections, and govern Kwara State justly, fairly, and competently.
Political Context
This endorsement comes amid broader political developments in the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party recently waived the screening requirement for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential primary, citing constitutional provisions and prior clearance during the 2022 primaries. Additionally, APC aspirants in several states, including Kwara, have rejected consensus arrangements and insisted on open primaries, highlighting internal party tensions.
The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council, a prominent socio-political body in Kwara Central, stated that its decision was based on consultations and assessments of political developments ahead of 2027, aimed at protecting and advancing the district's interests within the state's political landscape.
