The Kwara South Development Initiative and Leaders from across the Kwara South senatorial district have united to create a new direction for the region, prioritizing sustainable development over politics as usual.
In a strategic consultation meeting convened by the Kwara South Development Initiative (KSDI) on Monday, stakeholders committed to a fundamental shift in the region’s leadership selection process, vowing to champion competence and accountability.
The gathering, which brought together traditional rulers, academics, business moguls, and youth representatives, unanimously resolved that credible leadership is the sole pathway to tackling the region’s myriad challenges, including endemic poverty, rising insecurity, and rural-urban migration.
Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Adewumi, the KSDI Convener and proprietor of Thomas Adewumi University, emphasized the urgent need for action, stating that while the government is a key partner, community stakeholders must take active responsibility for the future of Kwara South.
He lamented the weak representation that has plagued the zone since 1999, noting that despite producing numerous top-ranking politicians, there is nothing tangible to show.
Adewumi warned against the re-election of recycled moneybag politicians in the 2027 polls, urging constituents to instead focus on the community development track records and manifestos of aspirants.
“We are tired of empty promises. In 2027, we must raise the stakes,” he said, calling on traditional rulers to resist monetary inducements.
Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ismail Bolaji Mohammed Atoloye, expressed his support for the initiative.
He highlighted the collective efforts of traditional leaders to combat insecurity with their own resources and questioned the impact of current National Assembly members. The monarch advised voters to accept money from politicians but cast their ballots for the best candidates.
The State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Sunday Fagbemi, also backed the call for change, acknowledging public dissatisfaction with some officeholders.
He assured the gathering that the party would strengthen its internal screening process to ensure that only credible candidates emerge in future elections.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Princess Olubukola Babalola, urged unity and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and security.
She emphasized that security is a collective responsibility, calling for community partnership with security agencies.
More pictures from the event
The event concluded with a renewed resolve to unite and select leaders who will genuinely serve the interests of Kwara South going forward.
