By Achile Danjuma
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has firmly dismissed growing speculation that he plans to handpick a successor for the 2027 governorship election, declaring that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will conduct a transparent and merit-based primary to choose its flagbearer.
Speaking on Tuesday in Ilorin during the APC State Congress, the Governor addressed the political rumours head-on amid intense lobbying and consultations within the ruling party. There has been widespread speculation that AbdulRazaq is backing a candidate from the Kwara North Senatorial District to take over the reins of power after his two-term tenure from Kwara Central.
“For those who will contest and whoever eventually emerges, it is not about anyone anointing anybody,” AbdulRazaq stated. “We are not here to build a dynasty; we are here to build a legacy. Whoever succeeds me will build on this foundation and strive to do better.”
While the Governor did not explicitly mention zoning, his remarks are widely seen as a direct response to claims that power is automatically shifting to Kwara North. The state has witnessed heightened political realignments ahead of the 2027 race, with stakeholders debating whether the next governor should emerge from the northern district to balance power after AbdulRazaq’s eight-year stint from the central zone.
To underscore the competitive nature of the upcoming contest, AbdulRazaq revealed that at least six aspirants have already signified interest in the APC ticket, including a current member of the Kwara State House of Assembly.
“When I speak of healthy competition, I mean it will be tough. Even from within our State House of Assembly, we have six governorship aspirants altogether. Moving forward, it will indeed be a healthy contest,” he said.
The Governor urged all aspirants and party stakeholders to prioritize unity and discipline throughout the primary process. He emphasized that the eventual winner must be magnanimous in victory and work to carry all contenders along to ensure the party remains strong for the general election.
AbdulRazaq’s comments come at a time when the APC in Kwara is working to solidify its structure ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested off-cycle governorship election. The Governor’s insistence on an open primary is seen as an effort to douse tension among aspirants and reassure party members that the process will not be predetermined.