The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council has announced that it has commenced new reconciliation efforts between Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Senator Saliu Mustapha. This move comes amid reported tensions in their political relationship ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Emergency Meeting at Emir's Palace
The council disclosed this after an emergency meeting held at the palace of the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari. Speaking to journalists, the National Coordinator of the council, Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe, stated that the body regards both men as prominent sons of the Ilorin Emirate and is determined to restore cordial relations between them for the benefit of the community.
Building on Previous Efforts
Oloriegbe explained that earlier reconciliation efforts initiated by the Emir would serve as a foundation for the latest intervention. He noted that a previous committee, led by the late Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate, Dr Muhammad Bashir Solihu, included respected Islamic scholars and stakeholders such as Habeeb Abdullahi Al-Ilory, Abdulkadir Kamaldeen Al-Adaby, former Secretary to the Kwara State Government Sheu Gafar, and the National President of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union, Abdulmumini Abdulmalik. “We are building on those earlier efforts and we intend to move quickly on the matter,” Oloriegbe added.
Warning Against Prolonged Division
The Secretary of the council, Abubakar Edun, warned that prolonged division between the governor and the senator could negatively affect the political and developmental interests of the Ilorin Emirate. According to him, the rift has already impacted the community’s access to federal projects and political appointments. “The two are among the finest sons of this community. Unfortunately, the cracks in their relationship have cost the emirate several multi-billion naira federal projects and appointments. And if care isn’t taken, it could cost us even more in the forthcoming elections. May God forbid it,” he said.
Edun added that the council realized the need for decisive intervention before the situation further affects the political fortunes of the emirate. “We have realized that if decisive steps are not taken, it is the Ilorin Emirate that will continue to bear the consequences,” he stated.
Inspection of Pavilion Project
The council also inspected the ongoing pavilion project at the forecourt of the Emir’s palace and commended the Kwara State Government for the quality of work being carried out at the site.
