By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin
A former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Prof. Wale Sulaiman, has expressed confidence that the party will retain power in the 2027 general elections despite the controversy surrounding its governorship primary.
Sulaiman said disagreements arising from the primary would not diminish the APC’s electoral prospects, expressing optimism that aggrieved members would eventually reconcile in the interest of the party.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin, the renowned neurosurgeon described the current dispute within the party as unfortunate, saying political discussions should focus more on governance and the welfare of the people than on personal ambitions.
He noted that while the APC governorship primary generated differing opinions, participants had willingly subjected themselves to the party’s internal processes.
“The process was open to everyone. Once a winner has emerged, it is difficult to reject the process simply because it did not produce the desired outcome,” he said.
Sulaiman also reacted to concerns raised by members of the G-15 group, saying issues relating to the primary process should have been addressed through the party’s established mechanisms.
He observed that President Bola Tinubu had previously stated that governors would play significant roles in the emergence of their successors, noting that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq remains the recognised leader of the APC in Kwara State.
According to him, any concerns over compliance with party guidelines should be pursued through the appropriate channels.
The former governorship aspirant stressed that politics should be driven by service to the people rather than personal interests.
He expressed concern over the challenges facing the state, including insecurity, unemployment, poverty and infrastructure deficits, urging political actors to focus on offering practical solutions.
“Kwara is confronted with serious challenges. People want to hear how leaders intend to improve security, create jobs, strengthen education and develop infrastructure,” he said.
Sulaiman reiterated that his involvement in politics has always been motivated by a desire to contribute to the state’s development rather than personal ambition.
He recalled presenting his Kwara Prosperity Agenda during the governorship race, with proposals covering security, healthcare, education, infrastructure and youth empowerment.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Sulaiman maintained that the APC remained well-positioned to retain power in the state.
According to him, the party’s performance in government would be a major factor in determining the outcome of the election.
“Our people are capable of assessing the performance of successive administrations. I believe the APC has a strong record to present and remains well placed to secure victory in 2027,” he said.
