KWARA NORTH REJECTS PROXY REPRESENTATION, CALLS FOR MERIT-BASED GOVERNORSHIP

KWARA NORTH REJECTS PROXY REPRESENTATION, CALLS FOR MERIT-BASED GOVERNORSHIP

A coalition of concerned indigenous people from Kwara North has firmly rejected recent claims and narratives suggesting that the region is collectively pushing for a rotational governorship ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a strongly worded statement, the group distanced itself from an article authored by Adebayo Abubakar titled “Why Kwara North Should Have It,” as well as a purported press conference by individuals claiming to represent the region. The stakeholders described such actions as misleading and unauthorized, stressing that they do not reflect the collective will of the people of Kwara North.

The group emphasized that Kwara North cannot be reduced to a tool for political bargaining or sectional ambition, noting that the region is guided by political maturity, independent thinking, and a commitment to good governance.

According to the statement, while inclusion and fairness remain important in a democratic system, they must not overshadow competence, integrity, and performance. The stakeholders declared their readiness to support any governorship candidate—regardless of regional origin—who demonstrates clear capacity, vision, and credibility to govern the state effectively.

They also warned against attempts to frame the 2027 governorship race as a North versus South contest, describing such narratives as divisive and capable of undermining the unity and peaceful coexistence in Kwara State.

“The future of Kwara must not be negotiated on the basis of regional rivalry, but on governance and collective progress,” the statement noted.

The group further criticized individuals and factions who claim to speak on behalf of Kwara North without broad consultation, describing such actions as undemocratic and self-serving. They reaffirmed that the region is diverse in opinion and cannot be represented by a single voice or agenda.

Calling on political actors, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other parties, the stakeholders urged a shift toward issue-based campaigns, credible candidacy, and transparent democratic processes.

Reiterating their position, the group stated that Kwara North does not support imposed narratives of entitlement, rejects divisive regional framing, and does not recognize any unauthorized representation.

They concluded by stressing that Kwara State deserves a unifying leader—one chosen based on merit, proven performance, and a commitment to the overall development of the state.