A prominent political faction within the All Progressives Congress in Kwara State, comprising aggrieved aspirants from the last primary election, has initiated steps to consider alternative political platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was taken following a mandate given by stakeholders to the leadership of the group to examine available options and submit recommendations within one week.
The resolution was reached during a stakeholders meeting at Notkel in Ilorin on Thursday, where participants approved a proposal empowering the leadership of the movement to explore legitimate political options. The voting process was coordinated by a former State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Salman Jawondo, SAN.
The development coincided with a separate town hall meeting and stakeholders engagement at the Arca Santa Arena in Ilorin, where the group formally changed its name from G-15 to The Otoge Progressives.
According to the movement, the rebranding reflects its rapid expansion since June and aims to provide a broader platform for members committed to internal democracy, inclusive leadership, and the preservation of the ideals of the 2019 Otoge movement.
Speaking at the event, the spokesperson for the movement and former Senator representing Kwara Central, Yahaya Oloriegbe, noted that the transition signifies growth rather than division. He dismissed claims that the activities of the group are driven by personal ambitions, emphasizing that the movement remains united in its core objectives.
Oloriegbe alleged that supporters of the movement are facing intimidation and inducement due to their political stance.
Oloriegbe said, “We are conscious of the difficulties confronting many of our supporters. We are aware of efforts to secure their allegiance through financial inducements, promises of political appointments, and other personal advantages,”.
He added, “We have also received disturbing accounts of threats, blackmail, and undue pressure directed at those who refuse to abandon their convictions. We appreciate the price you are paying for standing on principle, and we assure you that the leadership stands firmly beside you.”
During the meeting, the stakeholders passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and endorsed him for a second term in 2027. The motion was moved by the Senator representing Kwara Central, Saliu Mustapha, and received unanimous support.
Conversely, the faction rejected candidates supported by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for state elective positions, alleging that the candidates were imposed and contradict the ideals of the Otoge movement. The group further alleged that the candidates were picked to sustain the political influence of the governor beyond his tenure. The office of the governor has yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
Jawondo reaffirmed that members of the movement remain committed to pursuing their goals through lawful, democratic, and constitutional means, describing the defense of internal party democracy as a collective responsibility.
The latest development adds a new dimension to the ongoing crisis within the Kwara State APC over party congresses and the selection of candidates for the 2027 election cycle. The camp of AbdulRazaq maintains that all party activities have been conducted in strict compliance with the constitution and guidelines of the APC.
The event was attended by prominent political figures, including Senators Saliu Mustapha, Yahaya Oloriegbe, Sodiq Umar, Lola Ashiru, and Dele Belgore, SAN. Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari and Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa were represented at the gathering, which was also attended by party elders, former public office holders, and grassroots stakeholders from across all 16 local government areas of Kwara State.
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