Kwara Supporters Rally for President Tinubu and Reignite Otoge Movement
Under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara, thousands of supporters rallied in Ilorin, showing their solidarity for President Bola Tinubu. The event marked the revival of the Otoge movement, which successfully challenged the Saraki political dynasty’s dominance in Kwara politics back in 2019.
G15 Coalition Aims to Reestablish Initial Otoge Ideals
The G15 coalition, formed by the top 10 gubernatorial candidates of the APC, three current senators, a majority of National Assembly members, as well as party elders, youth, and women leaders, announced that their new initiative seeks to address what they describe as a departure from the original principles of the Otoge struggle under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration.
Solidarity March Highlights Party Discontent
The solidarity march began at the Geri Alimi underpass, wound its way past the Chieftain’s Palace, and culminated at the Post Office, where thousands of APC supporters assembled. Coalition leaders, speaking to the crowd, indicated that the impressive turnout underscored growing dissatisfaction within the party and reaffirmed that the core ideals of the Otoge movement remain vibrant among many Kwarans.
Discussions with National APC Leaders Focus on Unity
Following the march, the coalition issued a statement revealing it had recently engaged in discussions with senior APC officials and national leaders in Abuja. Topics of conversation included fostering APC unity in Kwara, exploring the future of politics in the state, and bolstering support for President Tinubu’s “New Hope” agenda.
Call for Political Renewal in Kwara State
The coalition conveyed that it is essential to prioritize collective aspirations over individual ambitions. Their focus is on revitalizing the party and ensuring a better future for Kwara State. This movement is characterized as a fight against exclusion, impunity, and ineffective governance—principles they believe are increasingly being overlooked.
Demands for Transparent Governance and Inclusivity
Among the coalition’s key demands presented to President Tinubu and APC leadership were calls to reconsider the state’s controversial party primaries, advocating instead for more credible alternatives. They emphasized the need for merit-based succession, transparent party management, and a cessation of political godfatherism. The group also stressed the importance of protecting dissent and implementing a justice-driven approach to reconciliation.
Advocating for Democratic Principles
The coalition firmly rejected any attempts by minority factions within the party to impose their preferences on the majority. The statement highlighted that the strength of democracy lies in the consent of the larger group, not in the interests of a select few. Leading gubernatorial aspirant and senator from the Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Saliu Mustapha, advised Governor Abdulrazaq to adopt a more equitable and inclusive approach to governance.
Voices of Leadership Unite for Change
Amidst growing calls for reform, Senator Mustapha insisted that the collective voice of Kwarans will ultimately shape the political landscape, emphasizing that past experiences indicate the electorate’s preference for transparency and participation in their governance. Esteemed figures present at the gathering included Ambassador Yahaya Gambari, Senator Yahaya Oloriegbe, and several other notable leaders, signaling a united front for change in the state.
