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Kwara groups back Seriki’s gov bid

From The Punch · (36m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Multiple women's groups and political stakeholders in Kwara State have declared support for Ambassador Abdulfatai Seriki's bid for governor in the 2027 election.
  • Supporters cite Seriki's track record in enterprise development, wealth creation, and youth empowerment as reasons for their endorsement.
  • The growing coalition backing Seriki is seen by observers as an early sign of realignment within the state's All Progressives Congress party.

The Kwara North Women Advancement Group, alongside other influential bodies like the Kwara Central Advancement Stakeholders Forum and the Ilorin Emirate Youth Assembly, have thrown their weight behind Ambassador Abdulfatai Seriki's ambition for the governorship in 2027. This wave of endorsements, cutting across the state's three senatorial districts, signals a significant early movement within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State.

We are endorsing Ambassador Yahaya Seriki because of his track record as a successful entrepreneur and employer of labour.

— Kwara North Women Advancement GroupExplaining the rationale behind their endorsement of Ambassador Seriki.

These groups are not just backing Seriki for the sake of it; they point to his established success as an entrepreneur and employer of labor as key qualifications. The women's groups, in particular, emphasize the need for a leader with a strong grasp of economic principles who can empower women at the grassroots. This perspective highlights a local understanding that economic growth and grassroots empowerment are intrinsically linked, a nuance often overlooked in broader national discussions.

Kwara needs a governor who understands how to grow the economy and empower women at the grassroots.

— Kwara North Women Advancement GroupStating the key qualities they seek in a gubernatorial candidate.

The Kwara Central Advancement Stakeholders Forum, after extensive consultations, believes Seriki possesses the capacity to build upon the current administration's achievements. Their call for party unity ahead of primaries underscores the internal dynamics and strategic considerations at play within the state's political landscape. From their viewpoint, continuity and consolidation are paramount for sustained progress.

His leadership style and experience in business place him in a good position to drive growth, create jobs, and stabilise the state’s economy.

— Kwara North Women Advancement GroupHighlighting Seriki's business acumen as a qualification for governance.

Furthermore, the Ilorin Emirate Youth Assembly sees Seriki as a grassroots politician deeply committed to youth development. His accessibility and understanding of the younger generation's needs are highlighted as critical factors. This focus on youth engagement and inclusive leadership resonates strongly within the local context, where the aspirations of young people are a significant political force.

After due consultations and careful consideration of all aspirants, we have resolved to support Ambassador Yahaya Seriki. We believe he has the capacity to sustain and build on the achievements recorded so far.

— Arc. Akanbi LamidiSecretary of the Kwara Central Advancement Stakeholders Forum, explaining their decision.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.