Artisans and traders across Kwara State have called on the Global President of the Offa Descendants Union and Director General of the Federation of Artisans, Associations and Traders for Asiwaju and Shettima, Alhaji Muideen Salako, to contest the 2027 governorship election, describing him as a tested grassroots leader whose life reflects the struggles and aspirations of ordinary Kwarans.
The call was made by the State Coordinator of the artisans’ group, Alhaji Sulaiman Babatunde Akanbi, who said Muideen Salako, an APC stalwart, possesses the experience, character, and capacity required to reposition the state for sustainable development.
According to him, Salako’s journey from humble beginnings as a roadside motorcycle mechanic and truck driver to becoming a successful entrepreneur and respected community leader sets him apart in a political landscape often dominated by privilege.
“Alhaji Muideen Salako is one of us. He understands the pain of ordinary Kwarans because he has lived it. His story is not built on theory but on real-life struggle, resilience, and hard work,” Akanbi stated.
He noted that Salako’s academic and professional achievements, including a Ph.D. in Forensic Accounting and Audit, combined with decades of leadership experience, place him in a strong position to manage the complexities of governance in Kwara State.
The artisans’ group also highlighted his current role as Global President of the Offa Descendants Union, where he has demonstrated leadership in community development, diaspora engagement, and grassroots mobilization.
They further referenced his role as Director General of the Federation of Artisans, Associations and Traders for Asiwaju and Shettima during the 2023 general elections, where he mobilised and coordinated support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across key segments of the informal sector.
“He has remained steadfast in his support for President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda. During the 2023 elections, he provided leadership for artisans and traders, ensuring that their voices were heard and their interests represented,” Akanbi added.
The group stressed that Kwara needs a leader with a practical understanding of economic realities. Through his foundation, the Ola Salako Foundation, he has contributed to empowering individuals and supporting community initiatives, while his background in business, agriculture, and public service further strengthens his profile.
“He has created jobs, built businesses, and supported communities. He understands what it takes to grow an economy from the ground up. This is the kind of leadership Kwara needs at this critical time,” he said.
They also pointed to his clear policy direction on security, infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment, describing it as evidence of preparedness rather than mere political ambition.
The artisans urged him to heed the growing calls from stakeholders and citizens across the state and offer himself for service, expressing confidence that he has the vision and capacity to deliver inclusive and people-centered governance.
“Leadership is about service and responsibility. We believe Alhaji Muideen Salako has what it takes to lead Kwara to a new phase of development, and we are calling on him to step forward,” the statement concluded.