A political bloc within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, mainly of aggrieved aspirants in the last primary election, has initiated moves to explore alternative political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The decision follows a mandate from stakeholders for the leadership 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 movement’s leadership to consider legitimate political alternatives. The vote was coordinated by former State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Salman Jawondo (SAN). The development coincided with a separate Stakeholders’ Engagement and Town Hall Meeting at the Arca Santa Arena in Ilorin, where the bloc formally changed its name from G-15 to The Otoge Progressives (TOP). The movement stated that 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 2019 “Otoge” movement’s ideals. Addressing the gathering, the movement’s spokesperson and former Senator representing Kwara Central, Yahaya Oloriegbe, noted that the transition signifies growth rather than division. He dismissed suggestions that the bloc’s activities are driven by individual ambition, emphasizing that it remains united in its core objectives. Oloriegbe alleged that supporters of the movement continue to face intimidation and inducement due to their political convictions. “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,” Oloriegbe said. “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 event, stakeholders passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and endorsed him for a second term in 2027. The motion, moved by the Senator representing Kwara Central, Saliu Mustapha, received overwhelming support. Conversely, the bloc unanimously rejected candidates supported by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for state elective offices, alleging that they were imposed and are inconsistent with the Otoge movement’s ideals. The group further alleged that these candidates are intended to sustain the governor’s political influence beyond his tenure—a claim that has yet to receive a formal response from the Governor’s office. Jawondo reaffirmed that members remain committed to pursuing these objectives through lawful, democratic, and constitutional means, describing the defense of internal party democracy as a “collective responsibility.” These developments add a new dimension to the protracted crisis within the Kwara APC regarding party congresses and the emergence of candidates for the 2027 cycle. The AbdulRazaq camp maintains that all party processes have been conducted in strict accordance with the APC constitution and guidelines. Other notable attendees included 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 event, which also saw participation from party elders, former public office holders, and grassroots stakeholders from all 16 local government areas of the state.
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