The Ilorin Emirate Political Advisory Council (IEPAC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office and backed Senator Saliu Mustapha as its preferred candidate for the Kwara State governorship in 2027.
The council announced the decision at a press conference on the political direction of Ilorin Emirate ahead of the next general election cycle.
IEPAC, which is the apex body of elders and stakeholders in Kwara Central senatorial district, said the endorsements followed “careful deliberation and assessment” of aspirants contesting key offices, including the presidency, governorship and the national assembly.
Speaking at the briefing, Dr. Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe, National Coordinator of the Council, and Lt. Col Abubakar Edun, it’s Secretay, said the decision to back the president was based on his administration’s performance over the past three years. He said the council also considered what it described as the support and opportunities extended to Kwara Central under Mr Tinubu’s administration.
“We unanimously endorse the aspiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, we believe the president deserves another four years to consolidate on the milestones already achieved,” Oloriegbe said.
On the governorship race, the council endorsed Mustapha, a serving senator, citing his “wide acceptability, maturity, experience and exposure”.
IEPAC said the lawmaker has the capacity not only to win the election but also to govern the state “justly, fairly and competently”.
The council, however, said its position does not preclude other aspirants from contesting.
“This endorsement does not in any way preclude other aspirants from exercising their legitimate rights,” it should not be construed as an attempt to shut out other sons and daughters of Kwara State or the Ilorin Emirate who may choose to pursue their aspirations.”
IEPAC called on political actors across the state, particularly major political parties, to align with its position in the interest of “unity, stability and progress”.
It also reiterated that the Ilorin Emirate remains inclusive and should continue to occupy a frontline position in the political structure of Kwara State.
The council added that it would continue to monitor political developments and could identify and support other aspirants capable of sustaining the achievements of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
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