The Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders Caucus has cautioned that any delays in establishing clear selection criteria for candidates leading up to the 2027 general elections could ignite detrimental rivalries and manipulative tactics among hopefuls.
During a press conference held on Saturday at the NUJ Press Centre in Ilorin, the caucus, represented by Chief James Bamisaiye Ayeni, appealed to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to promptly commence the process of identifying party candidates to preserve internal unity.
The elders expressed apprehension that the increasing number of individuals vying for the APC ticket might escalate political tensions if the selection procedure is not clearly defined and executed in a timely manner.
They emphasized that proactive steps by the party leadership would be instrumental in averting internal discord and ensuring a seamless primary election process, adhering to the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) schedule.
The caucus also recommended the adoption of a consensus approach, asserting that this method is the most effective means of maintaining harmony within the party.
Reaffirming their established stance on power rotation, the elders maintained that principles of equity and fairness necessitate that the governorship position should be allocated to Kwara North in 2027.
They reasoned that by the time the next election arrives, Kwara Central would have served as governor for two decades, and Kwara South for eight years, leaving Kwara North without a governor under the current democratic framework.
"For the sake of justice, equity, and fairness, the next governor must come from Kwara North," the caucus declared.
The elders further highlighted the consistent electoral support Kwara North has provided to the APC, noting the district's substantial votes for the party in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 elections, irrespective of the origin of the party's candidates.
They urged party leaders to conduct inclusive consultations with key stakeholders to ensure the emergence of a candidate who garners widespread acceptance.
Regarding security, the caucus commended the federal and state governments' efforts in tackling insecurity and expressed solidarity with those affected by recent banditry incidents.
They reiterated their endorsement of the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda and pledged their continued allegiance to the APC as preparations for the 2027 elections gain momentum.
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