Tell everyone that it’s our turn to govern Kwara State — Etsu Patigi

The Kwara North Traditional Rulers, led by Etsu Patigi, Dr. Umar Bologi, have stepped up their evhoe to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Kwara North regarding the selection of the next governor of Kwara State in the upcoming 2027 elections. In a gathering that brought together stakeholders from all five local government areas within the district held at the Emir Palace Patigi, the traditional leaders addressed the persistent insecurity that has plagued the region, threatening the peace and safety of its residents. The meeting also served as a platform to emphasize the demands of the Kwara North Traditional Rulers, who firmly believe it is their rightful turn to govern the state in 2027.

During the event, Dr. Umar Bologi, the vice chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council and the Etsu of Patigi, expressed strong criticism towards community members who have been complicit in harboring criminals, emphasizing the need for a local security outfit in Kwara North. “As Kwara Northerners, it is imperative that we confront the hardened criminals affecting our communities head-on. We are well aware that some individuals among us are aiding these criminal elements, and it is crucial that we address this issue internally,” he stated. Dr. Bologi further stressed the importance of unity in their fight against insecurity, declaring, “We cannot win this battle through division; now is the time for us to come together.”

Etsu Bologi also reiterated the region’s collective goal of supporting a Kwara Northerner for the governorship position in 2027. “We have been advocating for the election of a candidate from Kwara North, not out of a sense of entitlement, but rather as a plea for fairness and equity. We call upon all stakeholders to recognize the capable individuals we have in our midst, and to understand that this is not about specific areas like Patigi, Moro, or Kiama; it’s about the interest of all Kwara Northerners. This is our moment, and we must seize it,” he concluded emphatically.

HRH Alhaji Muhammed Kawu, the Emir of Lafiagi, echoed Etsu Bologi’s sentiments, emphasizing that the primary interest of the Kwara North Traditional Rulers in the upcoming election is to ensure that one of their qualified sons ascends to the governorship. He pledged that they would soon engage with traditional leaders from Kwara South and Central to garner their support, given that Kwara North has always stood by them in their times of need. “We respect the electoral process under the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, and we assure you that any candidate that emerges from Kwara North will receive our unwavering support,” he affirmed.

Prof. Halidu Abubakar, the Emir of Ilesha Baruba, took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Kwara State governor for his responsive actions regarding regional insecurity. He urged citizens to collaborate with traditional leaders in combating these challenges. Additionally, Prof. Abubakar called on the people of Kwara North to unify in their quest for leadership in 2027. “We will not simply wait for equity and justice to come; we have demonstrated that it is our time to produce the next governor from Kwara North. We have earned this opportunity and are advocating for improved infrastructure and facilities as well,” he declared. This position received strong backing from his counterparts from Okuta and Kiama.

Hon. Abubakar Danladi, the Executive Chairman of Kaiama Local Government, praised the efforts of the traditional rulers and emphasized the necessity for collective action to combat insecurity in the region. He assured the traditional rulers of the full support of local government chairpersons. Meanwhile, Hon. Wasiu Omotayo from Moro LG highlighted the importance of gender inclusion in governance and pledged her dedication to the Kwara North agenda.

Prince Abdullateef Adebara, representing the Oba of Jebba, called for a more inclusive approach during the electoral process, urging fellow traditional rulers to consider Moro LG for potential National Assembly positions.

The event drew the attendance of numerous dignitaries and traditional rulers from across Kwara North, demonstrating a unified front in addressing crucial local issues and advancing the region’s political aspirations.