Press Release
August 9, 2026
*KWARA PDP DISSOLVES ALL CAUCUSES AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTION PREPARATIONS*
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the dissolution of all Party Caucuses across the sixteen (16) Local Government Areas of the State, with immediate effect.
The decision forms part of the resolutions reached by the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Party and other critical stakeholders who held close door meeting with the Party Leader and President of the 8th Senate, HE, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON), during his recent homecoming and stakeholders’ engagements in the State.
The State Publicity Secretary of the Party, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, in a statement on Sunday, said the dissolution marks the beginning of a comprehensive reorganisation of the Party as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
According to him, the journey towards 2027 has effectively commenced, and the Party considers it necessary to refresh its structures, bring in new hands, broaden participation and create a more effective and inclusive political machinery capable of delivering victory for the PDP at all levels.
The decision is also in line with the powers vested in the State Executive Committee of the Party to take necessary steps towards strengthening, repositioning and reorganising the Party in the overall interest of its members and its electoral fortunes.
“We sincerely appreciate all members of the outgoing caucuses for their dedication, sacrifices, loyalty and contributions to the growth and development of the PDP in Kwara State. We wish them well in their future political endeavours and remain confident that they will continue to contribute their wealth of experience to the collective success of our great Party as we move toward 2027.”
The Party also calls on all members to remain calm, united and committed as the necessary mechanisms for the recruitment, constitution and inauguration of new caucuses across the state are already being put in place.
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary
Kwara PDP
PRESS STATEMENT
August 5, 2026
*Saraki’s Generosity to Ilorin Chief Imam Reflects Peoples -Centred Leadership - Kwara PDP*
*.....Mocks Gov Abdulrazaq Expired Promise to Chief Imam*
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commended the Leader of the party in the state and Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON, for his exemplary display of responsible leadership through the presentation of a brand new Toyota Land Cruiser, a cash donation of ₦5 million, and other logistical support to the newly inaugurated Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammed Bashir Dansuki
We find it very remarkable that immediately upon his arrival in Ilorin, Dr. Saraki proceeded straight to the residence of the Chief Imam to pay homage and congratulate him on his appointment before presenting him with the brand new Toyota Land Cruiser, the cash donation and other support to aid his religious and community responsibilities.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party expressed disappointment that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who reportedlly promised to provide vehicular support to the Chief Imam about two months ago, failed to fulfil that promise until now describing the governor’s action as yet another indication of an absentee style of leadership that has become disconnected from the needs of the people and the collective interest of the Ilorin Emirate.
The party further urged Kwarans not to be surprised as the Governor hurriedly procured and present his own vehicle to the Chief Imam in reaction to Dr. Saraki's generosity.
"For close to two months, the welfare needs of the Chief Imam received no attention from the Governor despite his promise. It would therefore be unfortunate if the government suddenly wakes up only after Dr. Saraki has once again demonstrated what genuine leadership looks like. Kwarans should see through any such hurried attempt at image management."
Leadership is measured by timely action, not by promises that has to wait for Saraki’s action to be executed.
The PDP noted that the Ilorin Emirate remains one of the foremost Islamic strongholds in Nigeria, stressing that every effort aimed at strengthening its religious institutions and supporting its spiritual leadership is an investment in peace, unity, and the preservation of the Emirate's rich heritage.
The party stated that Dr. Saraki's action reflects the values of compassion, service, respect for traditional and religious institutions, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
The PDP thanked Dr. Saraki for once again setting the standard for selfless leadership and reminding those in government that public service is about standing with the people when they need support the most, not about political desperation, succession calculations, or public relations exercises.
The party added that Dr. Saraki's consistent investments in the wellbeing of communities and institutions across Kwara State continue to distinguish him as a leader whose commitment to the people goes beyond holding public office.
We call on the people of the Ilorin Emirate and Kwarans at large to remain vigilant, continue supporting the Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin in his people-centred interventions, and rally behind the PDP as the credible alternative that has consistently demonstrated compassion, responsibility, and genuine leadership.
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary
Kwara State PDP
Breaking
Kaiama People Stage Massive Protest against Kwara Govt , Demand actions on Woro 179*
Residents of Kaiama today staged a massive peaceful protest, calling on Kwara state Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the 176 Woro victims who have remained in captivity since February 3, 2026.
For Woro 179, Silence is no longer an option.
July 19, 2026.
Kwara Has Lost a Patriot, Igbomina's Fearless Fighter — PDP Mourns Passge of Alh Kola Yusuf
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has received with sadness the news of the passing of an elder statesman, former federal lawmaker, Asiwaju of Oke-Ode Land and prominent stakeholder of our great party, Alhaji Kola Yusuf, who passed away at the age of 85 after a brief illness.
Until his passing, Alhaji Kola Yusuf was a respected political leader and accomplished public servant who represented the good people of Ifelodun, Offa and Oyun Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly. He also served Kwara State in several capacities, including as Commissioner for Works, and remained a respected religious and community leader whose counsel was widely sought.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party described his death as a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and the people of Oke-Ode, but also to the entire Igbomina nation, Kwara South Senatorial District, Kwara State and the PDP family. Above all, Alhaji Kola Yusuf departed this world as a devoted Muslim and a respected community leader whose life touched and positively impacted countless people
Within our party, he was a prominent leader and a member of the Elders' Advisory Council, where his wisdom, wit, experience and discernment provided invaluable guidance to the party and its leadership. He was a fearless fighter for the interests of Igbomina and Kwara South, a defender of truth and justice, and a true Asiwaju, not merely by title but in words and action.
Even at the advanced age of 85, Alhaji Kola Yusuf remained actively committed to the struggle for a better Kwara and was at the forefront of the #RescueKwara2027 project. He played critical roles in promoting peaceful, orderly and amicable processes during the recent party primaries, particularly within Ifelodun, Offa and Oyun district.
His death is, therefore, a devastating blow to the Kwara PDP family and has created a vacuum that will be extremely difficult to fill within our party and the larger Saraki political family.
As this great public servant bows out, we take consolation in his legacy of dedicated service to Nigeria, Kwara State, his community and our great party. We will continue to honour his memory by working assiduously with the people of Kwara to realise the vision 2027, of a state where government genuinely works for the people, where public institutions serve the common good and not a system which has reduced the state to someone's personal estate. This was part of the better Kwara for which Alhaji Kola Yusuf stood and laboured until his last breath.
The party recognises that this is a painful moment for his immediate and extended family, the Oke-Ode community, his political associates and all those whose lives he touched. We urge everyone affected by this great loss to take heart and find comfort in the remarkable life he lived, the good name he left behind and the generations of people who benefited from his service and leadership.
On behalf of the leadership and entire membership of the Peoples Democratic Party in Kwara State, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, the people of Oke-Ode, the Igbomina nation and the entire Kwara South Senatorial District. We pray Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds and grants him a befitting place in Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary
PDP, Kwara State
Massive Crowd Storms Kwara Court in Solidarity with Saraki
The premises of the Kwara State High Court yesterday witnessed a massive turnout of supporters and sympathisers of the leader of PDP in Kwara state and President of the 8th Nigerian Senate, HE, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, (GCON) who thronged the court in a show of solidarity and support for the two times Governor of Kwara
From the court premises to the surrounding areas, the massive turnout of people attracted serious public attention to the court, as people from different parts of Kwara State gathered to identify with Dr Saraki over the ongoing legal proceedings connected to the already concluded Offa robbery case
The case, instituted by the Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq led government has generated public and political controversies , with many kwarans describing it as politically motivated and an attempt to distract and weaken a major opposition figure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The matter came up before His Lordship, Justice Olusola Ajayi, with the defence team drawing the attention of the court to an earlier 27-page application seeking the recusal of the presiding judge and the reassignment of the matter to another judge in the interest of fairness and to avoid any perception of prejudice or possible conflict of interest.
The defence predicated its application on the fact that the same judge is also presiding over a civil suit arising from the same Offa robbery incident, in which some of the defendants in the present matter are equally defendants.
Following extensive arguments by counsel, the court adjourned the matter to July 21 for the hearing of the application.
For many Kwarans who gathered at the court, however, the case represents not pursuit of justice but part of a politically motivated effort by the administration of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to drag Dr Saraki into a matter that has already been subjected to extensive criminal proceedings, with the aim of distracting a leading opposition figure and weakening the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections
The presence of huge numbers of supportersat the court send a clear political message that even years after leaving office as Governor of Kwara State and subsequently serving as President of the 8th Nigerian Senate, Dr Saraki continues to command a formidable following among Kwara people .
It is a direct indication that neither political pressure nor what can be described as the weaponisation of state institutions can diminish people's commitment to standing with the former Senate President whenever the need arises
But that massive turnout, one message from Kwarans is clear, the Peoples solidarity with the Sarakis remains firm, their loyalty remains strong, and they are prepared to stand with their leader through every legitimate legal and political challenge ahead.
Our party is appreciative of this level of solidarity and love toward our leader and the Saraki political family.
PROsOffice ,
PDPs Secretariat,
Ilorin.
explained the efforts of government and reassured them that every necessary step was being taken to secure the victims' freedom.
"We challenge Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to see this development as a wake-up call and immediately rescue the Woro children and pregnant women. We also call on all Kwara citizens—especially journalists, civil society groups, academics, and public groups—to rise up and demand answers from the Abdulrazaq government regarding the 179 Woro people and others still trapped in bandit camps." The statement reads.
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary,
Kwara PDP
July 11, 2026
Press Statement
July 11, 2026
*Oyo School Rescue Exposes Abdulrazaq’s Failure in Kwara — PDP.*
*...Says 179 Woro victims abandoned in kidnappers' den for 159 days*
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State on the successful rescue of the 49 abducted school children and teachers, who regained their freedom after spending 51 harrowing days in the kidnappers' forest
The party described the rescue as the outcome of sustained citizen engagement, consistent media pressure, and the responsive leadership of the Oyo State Government. It noted that Governor Seyi Makinde demonstrated what responsible leadership looks like by treating public criticism and concern not as an affront, but as a call to intensify efforts to secure the victims' release.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the Kwara PDP contrasted the development with the security situation in Kwara State, accusing Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of failing to make the rescue of the 176 pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children abducted during the February 3, 2026 terrorist attack on Woro community a priority. The attack also claimed the lives of nearly 200 residents.
According to the party, Governor Abdulrazaq's perceived indifference and lack of decisive action extend beyond the Woro tragedy to the plight of hundreds of other victims of kidnapping and bandit attacks across Kwara State, leaving affected communities feeling abandoned and vulnerable.
"Our party is worried that while Oyo people celebrate the return of their citizens, Kwara State is left mourning under a government that simply does not care. We cannot help but compare the Oyo success to the situation in Kwara, where about 176 innocent people abducted in Woro, Kaiama LGA, have been left in the kidnappers' den since February 3, 2026. Today makes it exactly 158 days that these citizens have been abandoned in the forest, completely ignored by the Abdulrazaq government.
"The successful rescue in Oyo did not happen by accident. It happened because Governor Seyi Makinde showed true leadership, made the crisis his top priority, and worked closely with the Federal Government and security agencies. In sharp contrast, the government in Kwara has failed to face the issue of insecurity with the same energy, honesty, and determination needed to bring our people back home.
"What is even more disturbing is the wickedl way Governor Abdulrazaq treats critics and ordinary citizens who speak out. Instead of fighting bandits, this administration treats anyone who points out its failures as an enemy, using state institutions to hunt down and silence dissenting voices.
"Kwarans will not forget how elderly women from Ifelodun, who were peacefully protesting and begging the government to rescue their kidnapped loved ones, were brutally assaulted and humiliated right in front of the Government House, Ilorin while the police and security operatives watched. Meanwhile, in Oyo State, when protesters led by activist VeryDarkMan took to the streets, Governor Makinde did not send thugs to beat them. Instead, he joined them physically, explained the government's efforts, and gave them his word. This shows that a determined leader sees critics as partners in progress, not as criminals to be thrown into a jail cell," the statement reads in part.
The Kwara PDP commends the people of Oyo State and the Southwest, the media houses, the Rattel Movement led by VeryDarkMan, and every private citizen who used their voice to keep the Federal and Oyo State Government on their toes until those children were freed.
"The party observed that throughout the difficult period, Governor Makinde accepted public criticisms and demands for greater action as part of the burden of leadership. Instead of treating concerned citizens as adversaries, he acknowledged their concerns, personally engaged with protesters,
PRESS STATEMENT
7/7/2026
KWARA PDP HOLDS STRATEGIC MEETING WITH 16 LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMEN, SUPPORT GROUPS AHEAD OF 2027
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Kwara State Chapter, Led by its State Chairman, Hon. Isa Adamu Bawa, today held a strategic stakeholders’ meeting with the party’s 16 Local Government Chairmen and various support groups across Kwara State.
In a statement issued by the Assistant Publicity Secretary of the party, Bashir Ashura, noted that the meeting, which focused on strengthening the party’s structures and reviewing ongoing grassroots mobilization efforts, forms part of the PDP’s strategic preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the meeting, the State Chairman, Hon. Isa Adamu Bawa, commended the commitment and resilience of the Local Government Chairmen and the numerous support groups for their dedication to the growth of the party across the state. He emphasized the need for greater unity, effective coordination, and sustained grassroots engagement to further consolidate the PDP’s presence in every ward and community in Kwara State.
He urged the Local Government Chairmen to intensify their efforts by strengthening party structures, promote inclusiveness in decision-making, and ensuring that every member remains actively involved in the rebuilding process. He also encouraged them to continue harmonizing party activities and fostering unity among members at all levels.
The Chairman further charged the support groups to sustain their aggressive mobilization drive by engaging community leaders, stakeholders, party faithful, and prospective members across the state. According to him, the collective responsibility of every stakeholder is to ensure that the PDP remains the preferred platform for the people of Kwara.
Also speaking, the State Secretary of the party, Hon. Abdullahi Kayode Abdulrahman, reaffirmed that the party’s common objective is to reclaim Kwara State through a united, disciplined, and people-oriented movement. He stressed that the PDP remains committed to providing the leadership and good governance that Kwarans deserve, urging all party leaders and support groups to remain steadfast in pursuing that shared vision.
Similarly, a party stakeholder, Hon. Ibrahim Olayinka Otukoko, applauded the leadership of the party for convening the strategic meeting. He expressed confidence in the commitment of the support groups and party executives, urging them to remain focused, united, and relentless in expanding the party’s reach across the state. He expressed optimism that the PDP is well-positioned to emerge victorious in the 2027 general elections through sustained grassroots mobilization and collective commitment.
The meeting concluded with renewed determination by the party leadership, Local Government Chairmen, and support groups to work and strengthen the party’s structures, deepen grassroots engagement, and continue building the momentum required to return the People’s Democratic Party to government in Kwara State.
Signed:
Bashir Ashura
State Assistant Publicity Secretary
People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Kwara State Chapter
*NOTICE OF OFFICIAL INVITATION TO THE UNVEILING OF REV COS FAWENU, THE PDP DEPUTY GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE FOR 2027 GUBERNATORIAL ELECTIONS*
The Kwara State PDP cordially invites all party members, supporters, stakeholders, admirers, and the general public to the official unveiling of Reverend Cornelius Olaosebikan Fawenu as the Deputy Governorship Candidate (Running Mate) to the Party's Governorship Candidate, Engineer Suleiman Bolakale Kawu Agaka, for the 2027 General Elections.
Details of the Event:
*Date: Friday, 3rd July, 2026*
*Venue: PDP State Secretariat, Pipeline Road, Ilorin*
*Time: 10:00 a.m. Prompt*
Your presence at this historic event will be highly appreciated as we collectively take another significant step in our mission to rescue Kwara State and restore purposeful leadership.
Signed:
PRO's Office
Kwara State PDP Secretariat,
Ilorin.
June 30, 2026
*Kwara PDP Celebrates Assistant Spokesman, Bashir Ashura, on Birthday,*
*...Describes Him as a Priceless Asset to youths constituency*
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates its Assistant State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Bashir Ashura, on the joyous occasion of his birthday, describing him as a priceless asset to the party and the entire Kwara youth constituency.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara (Sholyments), the party commended the Patigi born Comrade Ashura for his commitment, exceptional dedication, and outstanding comradely spirit, noting that his youthful zeal and passion for service have been brought to bear in every responsibility and office he has been privileged to occupy.
The party said Comrade Ashura has continued to distinguish himself as a dependable, energetic, and result-oriented political communicator whose vibrancy, infectious aura, and can-do spirit have become invaluable assets to the PDP.
"Comrade Bashir Ashura remains one of the most functional Assistant of our time. His commitment to duty, uncommon work ethic, and readiness to shoulder responsibilities have made him a shining example.
"Indeed, he has demonstrated greater energy and commitment than even the Deputy Governors of some states in Nigeria."
The party further expressed confidence that Comrade Ashura's continued commitment would remain instrumental to the success of the PDP's mission of rescuing Kwara State and restoring purposeful, people-oriented governance.
While celebrating this remarkable milestone with him, the Kwara PDP prayed that Almighty God would grant him many more years in good health, abundant wisdom, divine protection, and greater financial prosperity, enabling him to continue rendering selfless service to Kwara State, its people, and the Peoples Democratic Party.
Signed :
Olusegun Olusola Adewara,
State Publicity Secretary,
Kwara PDP.
June 26, 2027
PDP Celebrates Kwara Youngest Guber Aspirant, Engr. Baba Idris, on Birthday,
...Hails His Humility and Sacrifices to Youth Development
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) heartily congratulates one of its finest young leaders, accomplished politician, media strategist, and youngest PDPs governorship aspirant, Engr. Baba Haruna Idris, on the occasion of his birthday.
Baba Haruna Idris, a proud son of Patigi and dedicated member of the Saraki political family, has distinguished himself as an honest, dependable, and innovative political communicator whose contributions to the growth of the PDP in Kwara State remain invaluable.
The party in a statement signed by the state publicity secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party acknowledges with immense pride his outstanding contributions to the PDP, particularly within the media unit where he has remained a cornerstone, pathfinder, and dependable voice in projecting the ideals and aspirations of our great party.
"As one of the youngest governorship aspirants in the 2023 general elections, he demonstrated uncommon courage, vision, and has made average young political players proud in Kwara State. In addition, his brilliance, dedication, humility, and loyalty have earned him a respected place among the youth constituency and the confidence of leaders across the political spectrum.
Beyond partisan politics, Baba Haruna Idris has consistently demonstrated diligence, perseverance, and selflessness in nurturing creating opportunities for the growth of young people around him, His willingness to sacrifice personal interests for the collective advancement of others has established him as a true bridge-builder and an inspiring role model in Kwara politics.
As a young leader, you have continued to bring youthful energy, fresh ideas, and uncommon commitment to your responsibilities as a respected party stakeholder.
As our party prepares to rescue Kwara State in 2027, we have no doubt that your influence, experience, and media prowess will further galvanize young people towards the PDP. Your sacrifices, commitment, and invaluable contributions to the party will never go unnoticed nor unrewarded.
On this special day, we pray that Almighty God grants you many more years in sound health, abundant wisdom, and greater strength to continue your noble struggle for a better, more prosperous, and more secure Kwara State.
Accept our congratulations, Engr Baba Idris! from all of us at Kwara PDP!
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary
Kwara PDP.
June 25, 2026
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL PDP STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY CANDIDATES
The Kwara State PDP wishes to inform all candidates who emerged from the recent State House of Assembly primary elections that the presentation of their Certificates of Return and issuance of INEC nomination forms will now hold as follows:
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Venue: PDP State Secretariat, Pipeline Road, Ilorin.
This is an important update which all concerned candidates are required to treat with utmost urgency, as there are critical INEC requirements and documentation processes to be completed between now and tomorrow.
Candidates are therefore advised to report promptly at the venue. Any candidate who fails to comply with this directive risks having his or her nomination details omitted from the submission to INEC.
Please accord this notice the seriousness it deserves.
PRO's Office
PDP State Secretariat
Pipeline Road,
Ilorin
Breaking
Kwara PDP Guber Candidate, Kale Kawu, NASS Candidates Receive INEC Forms & Certificate of Return in Abuja
Today at the Peoples Democratic Party National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, the Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party for Kwara State in the 2027 general elections, Engr. Suleiman Bolakale Kawu, FNSE, and other national Assembly candidates duly elected at the party's 2026 primary elections monitored by the IndependentNational Electoral Commission (INEC), officially received INEC Forms EC9, EC13A, and their Certificates of Return.
The presentation marks a key milestone as the party commences the upload of candidate details on the INEC portal ahead of the 2027 elections.
This moment reflects the confidence reposed by the party in Engr. Kawu, others including the Senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly Candidates, the overwhelming support of Kwarans across the 16 LGAs, and a shared resolve to chart a new course for the state.
With the mandate now formalized, we move forward with renewed energy, unity, and purpose — towards a Kwara that works for all. The journey to a Greater Kwara continues.
#PRO'soffice:
Kwara state PDP Secretariat,
Ilorin
Our heroes past established traditional rulership to serve as the conscience of society and the father of all. Any government that seeks to compel traditional rulers to wear partisan colours is doing grave damage to a heritage built over centuries. When kings become politicians, the throne inevitably loses part of the honour and reverence that make the institution sacred."
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary
Kwara PDP
June 23, 2026
PRESS STATEMENT
June 23,2026
PDP Condemns AbdulRazaq's Politicization of Traditional Institution in Kwara,
...Warns Against Dragging Royal Fathers into APC internal Struggles
The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the unfortunate involvement of some traditional rulers in the ongoing internal political crisis and succession battle within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, describing the action as sacreligous and politically unwise.
Our party's secretariat has in recent days been inundated with calls, messages, and visits from concerned Kwarans who have expressed frustration, disappointment, and embarrassment over reports and images showing Kwara traditional rulers being led by the State Chairman of the APC to Abuja in what appears to be an effort to defend the personal political interests of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq before the national leadership of the APC.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party said it shares the concerns of many Kwarans who are worried that the state has descended to a level where revered traditional institutions are being forced into open partisan politics, noting that the spectacle of royal fathers being led by APC officials to intervene in an internal party succession dispute as embarrassing, unfortunate, and a stain on the dignity, neutrality, and sanctity of the traditional institution.
The PDP said the development is even more disturbing because it is difficult to find any other state in Nigeria where traditional rulers are so openly drawn into partisan political activities and internal party disputes.
"It is unfortunate that our once highly respected traditional rulers are now being positioned as political campaign managers for a governor who appears desperate to impose a successor on his party and the people of Kwara State. Traditional rulers are custodians of our culture, heritage, peace, and unity. Their institutions command respect because they are expected to stand above partisan politics and serve as fathers to all, irrespective of political affiliation"
"These traditional institution exists to unite, counsel, preserve culture, and promote peace not to be dragged into partisan political battles. The moment royal fathers are drawn into political contests, the dignity, neutrality, and moral authority of the institution they represent begin to diminish. A traditional ruler who becomes identified with one political interest inevitably risks losing the confidence of citizens who belong to other political tendency . This weakens the capacity of traditional institutions to serve as impartial mediators, symbols of unity, and custodians of communal harmony.
"The tragedy is that while communities across Kwara are battling insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks while many communities are being deserted. Even some traditional rulers have become victims of abduction and attacks, while hospitals are struggling, rural roads are deteriorating, unemployment is rising, and many communities are living in fear, our traditional rulers are not being mobilised to seek urgent intervention and solutions from the Federal Government.
"The people of Kwara expected to see royal fathers leading conversations around security, economic development, education, healthcare, and community welfare. They never expected to see them deployed as emissaries in a partisan battle over who becomes the next governorship candidate of APC.
The PDP therefore urged traditional rulers across the state to jealously guard the sanctity, dignity, and neutrality of their institutions and resist every attempt by the current Abdulrazaq' government to exploit their status and influence for narrow political objectives noting that what happened in the last 2023 elections where some Royal fathers were compelled to work for APC will not be tolerated in 2027.