Abdulmajeed Abdullahi, Convener of the Legacy 2027 group, has raised concerns over the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Kwara State, describing the emergence of the party’s candidate as a departure from democratic principles.
Abdullahi made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s breakfast programme, where he highlighted the questions and agitations among APC members and stakeholders regarding the succession process ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The situation in Kwara currently, within the folds in the ranks of those leading the APC, is not the question of which candidate was declared or who is the preferred candidate of any of the groups or stakeholders in the state,” Abdullahi said.
“The question is about the political character or democratic principle upon which the state succession is being determined.”
According to Abdullahi, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had earlier endorsed Ambassador AbdulFatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari, one of the qualified aspirants, citing his level-headedness, consistent support for the party, and significant investments in the state.
Several other aspirants subsequently stepped down in what was seen as a consensus arrangement, drawing commendation from many stakeholders and party members.
However, the party opted for a primary election. Voting commenced across wards on May 21, with collation underway by noon, when the APC publicity secretary announced a postponement. Party members were later directed to return on May 22 to complete the process.
Materials arrived late in the afternoon, after which stakeholders were summoned to a meeting at the Banquet Hall in Ilorin. There, the primary committee led by Senator Obanikoro declared Yakubu Danladi as the winner.
“The question that aggrieved the minds of the people was: where did the votes upon which the said candidate was declared winner come from?” Abdullahi asked.
He noted that the declaration of Gambari had earlier elicited widespread enthusiasm across the state due to the aspirant’s long-standing philanthropic work and deep emotional connection with the people, which “predates politics” and extends beyond state borders. In contrast, Danladi’s emergence reportedly triggered a “sobering and mourning” mood among many stakeholders.
Abdullahi clarified that the concerns are not personal. “I don’t think the stakeholders who are talking have anything against Danladi, as he has as well contributed to the development of the state. But the question is about the process,” he said.
He further observed that elders in the state are worried about the repetition of the very issues the “O to ge” movement had opposed, which originally brought the current administration to power.
The comments reflect ongoing tensions within the Kwara APC following the controversial primary exercise.
Kwara governorship primary saga: APC Chieftian pleads with party leadership to ensure that the people’s mandate is not subverted.
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