Drama in Kwara as APC governorship aspirant steps down for “better candidate”

By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

ILORIN — A political stir unfolded in Kwara State today as All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, publicly declared his ambition only to step down minutes later in favor of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari.

Mahmud, representing Kwara North Senatorial District, cited the historic exclusion of his zone from producing a governor as a motivating factor behind his earlier ambition. However, he said consultations with key stakeholders led him to support Seriki, from Kwara Central, describing him as a “better aspirant” capable of uniting the state and driving inclusive development.

“For nearly three decades, Kwara North has stood loyal to our state, yet its time to lead has not come,” Mahmud said. “I have championed this cause because fairness and unity drive progress. Today, I step aside not in defeat, but in hope and faith that, together under Ambassador Seriki, Kwara will rise to new heights of growth, stability, and shared prosperity.”

Mahmud, also known as Dan’iyan Kaiama, emphasized that the decision was made after careful reflection and consultations with supporters. He described Seriki as a unifying figure with a track record of youth empowerment, grassroots development, and bridge-building across communities, aligning closely with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

“This is not retreat; it is a rallying call. This is not weakness; it is wisdom. It is a sacrifice for unity and progress,” Mahmud stated, drawing applause from party members and supporters at the event held at an Events Centre on Old Offa Road, GRA, Ilorin.

He also took the opportunity to commend the federal and state governments, as well as security personnel, for their response to the recent Woro incident, urging swift action to rescue abducted victims.

The development marks a significant moment in the 2027 political landscape of Kwara State, highlighting efforts within the APC to balance regional representation, party unity, and strategic candidacy ahead of the elections.