Fresh divisions within the Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have sparked concerns over a possible political resurgence by loyalists of former Senate President Bukola Saraki ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A pressure group within the party, Concerned Members of Kwara APC, has warned that the deepening internal crisis could erode the gains of the 2019 “O To Ge” political movement, which dismantled Saraki’s long-standing political dominance in the state.

In an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the group—led by Hon. Olosasa Toyin—accused Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of actions they claim are weakening party unity and alienating key stakeholders.

According to the group, the current tensions within the APC stem from what it described as the marginalisation of party leaders and grassroots mobilisers who were instrumental to the 2019 electoral victory.

The “O To Ge” movement—widely seen as a coalition of political actors, civil society elements and grassroots supporters had successfully rallied voters across Kwara to end Saraki’s influence. However, the group now argues that many of those who powered that movement have been sidelined under the current administration.

It alleged that this has triggered an exodus of key figures from the party, weakening its grassroots structure and opening up political space for opposition forces.

The group further accused the governor of pursuing what it termed a “war of attrition” against perceived opponents within the party, citing litigations involving prominent figures such as Hon. Ilyasu Moro and Hon. Mashood Mustapha.

While details of the cases remain contested, the group claimed the legal actions have deepened mistrust and entrenched factional divisions within the party.

It also raised concerns over what it described as an emerging succession agenda ahead of 2027, alleging that the governor is backing Speaker Danladi Yakubu as a preferred successor.

According to the group, such a move is being interpreted by some stakeholders as an attempt to retain political control beyond his tenure—an allegation it characterised as a “third-term project by proxy.”

Security and Governance Concerns

Beyond internal party politics, the group expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s handling of security challenges, particularly incidents of kidnapping and violent attacks in parts of Kwara.

It accused the governor of failing to show sufficient empathy towards affected communities, alleging that his absence from some crisis-hit areas has further alienated residents.

The group also criticised ongoing demolitions and legal disputes involving prominent individuals, claiming these actions are being perceived in some quarters as politically motivated rather than developmental.

A central concern highlighted in the letter is what the group described as the unintended political advantage being handed to Bukola Saraki and his loyalists.

According to the group, actions perceived as targeting the former Senate President have instead generated sympathy and renewed political momentum for his camp.

“Like him or hate him, Saraki remains one of the most influential political figures in the state,” the group stated, warning that internal missteps by the APC could facilitate his return to political relevance.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene in the crisis, urging him to mediate and restore unity within the Kwara APC.

It recommended immediate reconciliation efforts, including the suspension of ongoing litigations and the adoption of a more inclusive approach to party management.

While reaffirming its loyalty to the APC, the group stressed that its intervention was aimed at safeguarding the party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

Analysts say the situation in Kwara reflects a broader challenge within ruling parties, where post-victory cohesion often gives way to internal power struggles over control and succession.

If unresolved, the current crisis could test the durability of the “O To Ge” coalition and determine whether the APC can maintain its hold on Kwara or inadvertently pave the way for a political comeback by its old rivals.

“The governor’s actions are making the opposition more popular. We need peace and unity to ensure victory,” the group warned. (The Guardian)

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