As the political landscape in Kwara State begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 governorship elections, there is growing agitation for power to shift to Kwara North.
The region, predominantly home to the Nupe, Bokobaru, Batonu, and Fulani ethnic groups, has yet to produce a governor since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
The debate over zoning remains contentious in Nigerian politics. While not a standard practice in American-style democracy, it has been used as a mechanism for political balance and inclusiveness.
Historical precedents, such as the emergence of Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Yar’Adua as Nigeria’s presidents, as well as Yahaya Bello’s victory in Kogi State, highlight the role of zoning in ensuring equitable representation.
Since 1999, Kwara Central has dominated the governorship seat, with Admiral Mohammed Lawal (1999–2003) and Bukola Saraki (2003–2011) both hailing from the region. In 2011, AbdulFatah Ahmed from Kwara South took over, but the cycle returned to Kwara Central in 2019 with the election of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
By 2027, Governor AbdulRazaq will have completed his second term, reigniting discussions on whether Kwara North should produce the next governor. However, the big question remains: will stakeholders from Kwara Central and Kwara South support a candidate from the northern district?
Within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), several politicians from Kwara North have already positioned themselves as potential contenders. These include:
Hon. Danladi Salihu, the current Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly
Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, a former Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
Senator Sadiq Umar, whose campaign posters are already visible across the state
Meanwhile, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has yet to make its position known, leaving room for speculation on whether it will also field a candidate from Kwara North.
Despite the growing support for a power shift, challenges remain. Key questions linger:Will the APC remain united if one candidate is chosen over the others?
Can the aspirants rally behind the eventual winner without engaging in anti-party activities?
Will Kwara North secure enough support from the other senatorial districts?
With political alignments and realignments expected in the coming months, the race for Kwara’s next governor promises to be keenly contested. As events unfold, all eyes remain on whether Kwara North will finally get its turn at the helm of power.
