Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has emerged as the sole aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket in Kwara Central after Senator Saliu Mustapha stepped down from the party's primary election. The primary, which is taking place today, now features Governor AbdulRazaq as the lone candidate for the 2027 senatorial race.
Senator Mustapha's Withdrawal
Senator Mustapha, who currently represents Kwara Central in the Senate, announced his decision to withdraw from the contest in a statement issued by his media assistant, Nasir Sholagberu, earlier on Monday. In the statement, Mustapha expressed his full support for Governor AbdulRazaq and called for peaceful and orderly primaries. He noted that the governor's emergence as the sole aspirant was a clear indication of the immense respect, acceptance, and confidence he enjoys among party stakeholders and members across the state.
Party List and Concerns
Our reporter gathered that while the governor is listed as number 17 on the party list for the contest, Mustapha is listed as number 18. The appearance of Senator Mustapha on the list of contestants for the Kwara Central Senatorial race had raised concerns among Kwarans, who expected that he was actually in the race for the Kwara State gubernatorial election. However, Mustapha's decision to step down has clarified the situation.
Speaking on the contest, the lawmaker emphasized that the development reflects the belief among party leaders and stakeholders that the governor deserves such recognition and prominence in view of his contributions to the growth and stability of the party and the state. He further wished the governor and all other aspirants participating in the primaries across the state a peaceful, successful, and rancour-free exercise.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
With Governor AbdulRazaq now the sole aspirant for the APC senatorial ticket in Kwara Central, the party is expected to present a unified front ahead of the 2027 general elections. The governor's decision to contest for the Senate seat has been seen as a strategic move, given his experience and track record in governance. The APC leadership in Kwara State has expressed confidence in the governor's ability to secure the senatorial seat and contribute to the party's legislative agenda at the national level.
