LAGOS – As Nigerian politicians strategise for the 2027 governorship election, agitations have heightened in political circles in Kwara State for the governorship position in the state be shifted to Kwara North Senatorial District.
Barrister Titilope Anifowoshe, who spoke to Sunday Independent from her Ilorin, Kwara State base, said the agitation the current agitation for power shift to Kwara North is rooted in historical, social, and economic factors, as well as perceptions of marginalisation and underrepresentation of the zone in Kwara politics.
Barrister Anifowoshe, former Personal Assistant/Legal, Policy, and Research Assistant to Senator Gbemisola Saraki, former Minister of State for Transport, noted that since the inception of democracy in 1999, the governorship of Kwara State has been held by individuals from Kwara Central and Kwara South.
Anifowoshe, also former Information Officer, All Progressive Congress (APC) and Publicity Secretary, Young Progressives Party (YPP), Kwara State chapter, explained that the late Governor Mohammed Lawal, served as the inaugural governor from 1999 to 2003.
“He was succeeded by Dr. Bukola Saraki, who held office for two consecutive terms, spanning a total of eight years.
“Following end of Dr. Saraki’s tenure, Governor AbdulFatai Ahmed from Kwara South assumed leadership for another eight-year period.”
Stressing that the current agitation for power shift to Kwara North is crucial, Anifowoshe stressed: “As of the current political landscape, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, from Kwara Central, is serving his second term in office.
“By the conclusion of his tenure in 2027, the cumulative years of Kwara Central’s governorship will extend to a significant total of 20 years.
“We have 20 years for Kwara Central. Eight years for Kwara South and zero for Kwara North
“For the sake of equity and fairness, the 2027 governorship position should go to Kwara North.
“It is high time we addressed the imbalance and ensure that every region of Kwara State has an opportunity to lead.
“Kwara North, despite its significant size and diverse culture, has yet to produce a democratically elected governor since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule 25 years ago.
“The region boasts five large and vibrant local governments – Baruten, Edu, Pategi, Kaiama, and Moro -each with a pool of educated and experienced individuals capable of assuming leadership roles.
“By providing the governorship opportunity to Kwara North, we not only promote fairness, but also tap into the wealth of talent and potential that exists within the region.
“I am from Igbonla in Irepodun LGA of Kwara South and I am aware of calls for power shift to other regions. It is essential to prioritise equity and balance in political leadership.
“While Kwara South and Kwara Central are entitled to voice their aspirations, we must acknowledge the principle of equity and ensure that all regions have equal opportunities for representation.
“Suffice to note that Kwara North is not lacking in capable leadership. The region has produced some of the brightest and youngest talents in the Kwara State government, including the esteemed Speaker of the Kwara State Assembly, Hon. Yakubu Danladi; Prof. Farooq Kperogi, the vibrant Commissioner for Water Resources whom I am most proud of; Usman Yunusa Lade, our beautiful and brilliant Commissioner of Youth, Nafisat Buge, Buhari and other dynamic individuals excelling in various capacities even outside politics and public service.
“If Kwara North can rally together, maintain unity, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of equitable representation, they have the potential to not only produce a gubernatorial candidate, but also select a capable leader who will leave a lasting impact on the entire state.
“I am confident that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara will prioritise equity and ensure that the governorship ticket in 2027 reflects a fair distribution of political power.
“Ultimately, the decision of who will govern Kwara rests with the people themselves, who will exercise their right to vote in a free and fair election insha Allah.
“It is the collective voice of the people that will determine the outcome, and their choice will be instrumental in shaping the future of our state. May the Will of God be done.”
Anifowoshe maintained that the agitation for power shift in Kwara State in 2027 is indicative of a broader trend seen in many democratic societies, where various regions or demographics seek greater representation and influence in the political landscape.
She stressed: “This phenomenon often arises close to election cycles and reflects both genuine desires for equitable distribution of political power and, at times, less substantiated claims.
“Hence it is important to view the call not merely through a political lens, but also as a matter of paramount importance for fostering greater unity and cohesion within the state.”
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