By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Sunday Fagbemi, has defended the emergence of Yakubu Danladi-Salihu as the party’s governorship candidate for the 2027 election, describing him as experienced, competent, and capable of sustaining the developmental achievements of the current administration.
Speaking during a television interview, Fagbemi said Danladi-Salihu emerged through a transparent and credible primary election conducted by the ruling party.
“A free and fair primary has been conducted in Kwara State, and a winner has emerged,” he stated.
Fagbemi said the APC candidate’s track record in public service, particularly his tenure as Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, demonstrates his ability to lead the state effectively.
“Speaking of competence, this is someone who served as Speaker of the State House of Assembly for two terms. There was cooperation and synergy with other arms of government throughout his tenure. That speaks to his capacity and leadership ability,” he said.
Danladi-Salihu, who currently represents Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, recently secured the APC governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 election.
APC Dismisses Third-Term Agenda Allegations
Responding to criticisms surrounding the primary election, Fagbemi rejected claims that Danladi-Salihu’s emergence was linked to a purported third-term agenda by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
According to him, the APC candidate earned the ticket based on merit and not political influence.
“Danladi is a Kwaran and is contesting based on his own merit. If another person had emerged, critics would still find reasons to complain,” he said.
Party United Ahead of 2027 Election
The APC chairman also dismissed reports of internal divisions within the ruling party, insisting that the APC remains united and continues to attract new supporters across Kwara State.
He noted that several members who left the party before the 2023 elections have since returned.
“Many of those who left the party before the 2023 election have returned, and we welcomed them back. We are not losing members; rather, more people are joining us,” Fagbemi said.
APC Confident of Victory in 2027
Fagbemi expressed confidence that the APC would retain power in Kwara State during the 2027 governorship election, citing the achievements of Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
According to him, government investments have significantly improved access to essential services across the state.
“There is hardly any ward in Kwara State today without a functional healthcare centre. These are the kinds of achievements that will speak for us during the election,” he stated.
He urged party members to remain united and focused as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship poll.
