Kwara APC backs Danladi for 2027 governorship race

Kwara State's All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Sunday Fagbemi, has strongly defended the party's selection of Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu as its candidate for the 2027 governorship election. Fagbemi asserted that Danladi-Salihu is competent and well-prepared to succeed the incumbent Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, dismissing criticisms surrounding his emergence.

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A free and fair primary has been conducted in Kwara State, and a winner has emerged.

Speaking on TVC's Breakfast Show, Fagbemi highlighted Danladi-Salihu's extensive experience, pointing to his two consecutive terms as Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly. He argued that this tenure, marked by cooperation with other government arms, demonstrates significant competence. Danladi-Salihu, who currently serves as the Representative for Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency, secured the APC's nomination through a primary election that Fagbemi described as transparent and credible.

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Speaking of competence, this is someone who served as Speaker of the State House of Assembly for two terms. There has been no rancour. There has been cooperation and synergy with the other arms of government. That takes a lot, and it answers the question of competence.

Fagbemi also refuted claims that Danladi-Salihu's candidacy is a ploy for Governor AbdulRazaq to pursue a third term, stating that such criticisms are unfounded and that political growth is natural. He further addressed concerns about internal party divisions, insisting that the APC in Kwara State is united and continues to attract new members. Fagbemi expressed confidence in the party's ability to retain power in 2027, citing the AbdulRazaq administration's achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

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Are they saying Danladi is not a Kwaran? Did they say he is contesting for governorship the third term? If any other person had emerged, they would find something else to say.