APC Backs Ex-Senator for Kwara Governor

APC Support Groups Rally Behind Oloriegbe for Kwara Governorship in 2027

A significant coalition of support groups within Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally declared their endorsement for former Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State. The groups articulated that Oloriegbe possesses the requisite competence and vision to sustain and advance the trajectory of governance within the state.

The official announcement was made during a press conference held in Ilorin, the state capital. Adigun Adebowale, speaking as the spokesperson for the coalition, revealed that this decision was the culmination of extensive consultations that spanned across various party structures and engaged numerous grassroots stakeholders.

Senator Oloriegbe, who previously represented the Kwara Central Senatorial District from 2019 to 2023, garnered considerable national attention following his pivotal victory over former Senate President Bukola Saraki in the 2019 general elections. This triumph was widely regarded as a watershed moment, contributing significantly to a broader political realignment that reshaped the power dynamics in Kwara State.

The coalition, a diverse assembly comprising dedicated party faithful, seasoned professionals, active youth organisations, and committed grassroots mobilisers drawn from all three senatorial districts of Kwara State, expressed unwavering confidence in Oloriegbe’s capabilities. They believe he possesses the essential experience and proven capacity to effectively lead the state during what they describe as a critical transitional period.

“Kwara State finds itself at a defining juncture,” Adebowale stated. “What we require is a leader who not only possesses a profound understanding of governance but has also demonstrably proven their ability to deliver tangible results. Senator Oloriegbe has consistently showcased this calibre of leadership, both at the state and the national levels.”

Oloriegbe’s Legislative Achievements Highlighted

The coalition took the opportunity to underscore Senator Oloriegbe’s significant contributions during his tenure in the Senate. Particular emphasis was placed on his impactful work within the health sector. He chaired key committees and was a driving force behind numerous reforms specifically designed to broaden access to quality healthcare services for citizens. His efforts were instrumental in advancing health insurance coverage and reinforcing the institutional frameworks that underpin Nigeria’s healthcare system.

A notable achievement cited by the groups was Oloriegbe’s role in facilitating the establishment of a Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Budo-Egba. This development was hailed as a major intervention aimed at addressing the pressing challenges associated with mental health in the region.

“His dedicated efforts in the health sector transcend mere policy pronouncements; they represent concrete interventions that have demonstrably improved the lives of countless individuals,” Adebowale elaborated.

Addressing Youth Unemployment and Inclusive Development

Beyond his contributions to healthcare, the coalition highlighted Oloriegbe’s proactive approach to tackling youth unemployment. They reported that he facilitated over 350 federal job placements for indigenes of Kwara State. This initiative was characterized as a deliberate and strategic effort to alleviate the burden of unemployment among the youth.

“In an era where numerous young individuals grapple with the challenge of finding meaningful employment opportunities, these interventions have provided much-needed relief and a renewed sense of hope,” the spokesperson insisted.

The group maintained that such impactful initiatives serve as clear indicators of the former senator’s deep-seated commitment to fostering inclusive development and empowering communities at the grassroots level.

Consolidating Progress and Ensuring Continuity

Furthermore, the coalition argued that Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe is strategically positioned to build upon and consolidate the developmental achievements already recorded under the current administration led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. They specifically referenced progress made in areas such as fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, and institutional reforms.

“Our objective is not to introduce disruptive changes, but rather to champion continuity coupled with significant improvements. The positive progress that has been made in recent years must be preserved and further enhanced,” Adebowale emphasised.

While formally declaring their support, the coalition stressed that their endorsement is not intended to diminish the aspirations of other potential aspirants within the APC. Instead, they issued a fervent appeal to APC leaders at both the state and national levels. They urged these leaders to place a paramount emphasis on competence, experience, and demonstrated capacity when the crucial decision of selecting the party’s governorship candidate is made.

The timing of this endorsement is significant, occurring amidst a backdrop of intensifying political calculations within the APC as the party gears up for the 2027 electoral cycle. Reports indicate that several aspirants are actively positioning themselves to vie for the party’s gubernatorial ticket.

Political analysts suggest that the forthcoming race is likely to be shaped by a confluence of factors. These include intricate internal party dynamics, considerations related to political zoning arrangements, and the influential sway of key political stakeholders within Kwara State.

The emergence of Senator Oloriegbe as a contender is anticipated to add a compelling new dimension to what is already shaping up to be a highly competitive intra-party contest.