The All Progressives Congress in Kwara State staged a massive solidarity procession in Ilorin, drawing thousands of loyalists to endorse President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the party's standard-bearer, Salihu Yakubu-Danladi, ahead of the 2026 political transition.
Promoted by organisers as a 20,000-man assembly, the gathering brought together party faithful from several municipal jurisdictions, including Ilorin West, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Asa, and Moro local government districts. The demonstration began near the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital Roundabout, meandering through major thoroughfares while participants displayed party insignia and sang mobilization anthems.
What led to the mega rally in Ilorin?
Spearheaded by Suleiman Sai Kayi, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, the event was primarily designed to showcase public backing for the ruling administration's achievements and to consolidate support for the upcoming electoral contests. Speaking to reporters during the procession, Mr Sai Kayi praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his infrastructural strides, educational reforms, and commitment to the welfare of civil servants and retirees.
“The youth are more than any other age group in this rally. We are gathered to appreciate Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for giving us SYD. SYD is part of our own constituency,” Mr Sai Kayi stated, referring to Mr Yakubu-Danladi, whom he described as a vital continuation of the government's trajectory since 2019.
How is the party positioning its candidates?
Echoing similar sentiments, Sa’adu Salahu, the Senior Adviser and Counsellor to the Governor, cautioned the electorate against opposition rhetoric, urging voters to evaluate political actors based on verifiable public service delivery. He lauded the current administration for fostering an atmosphere of political tolerance and shunning thuggery, a sharp departure from past administrations.
“We can have political differences, but you will agree with me that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has never encouraged political thuggery, in contrast to the style of the past government,” Mr Salahu noted.
Other key figures at the event included Abdulrazaq Jiddah, Director-General of the APC Campaign Council (Central), and Abdulwasiu Tejidini, General Manager of the Kwara State Social Investment Programme, alongside numerous legislative candidates, local council chairmen, and party chieftains who underscored the unity and strength of the ruling platform across the state.