•• Rejects Alleged Imposition of Candidates by Governor AbdulRazaq
The Kwara APC G15 group has officially rebranded as The Otoge Progressives, unveiling a new name, logo, and identity while declaring total support for the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement was made during a town hall meeting and stakeholders’ engagement held at the Arca-Santa Arena in Ilorin, drawing thousands of party faithful, National Assembly members, former governorship aspirants, and community leaders from across all 16 local government areas of the state.
Addressing the gathering, the spokesperson for the movement and former Kwara Central Senator, Senator Yahaya Oloriegbe explained that transitioning from the G15 to The Otoge Progressives reflects the movement’s growth since its inception in June.
He stated that the rebranded movement provides a broader platform for members committed to internal party democracy, inclusive politics, and upholding the core values of the 2019 Otoge revolution.
“We are conscious of the difficulties confronting many of our supporters. We are aware of efforts to secure their allegiance through financial inducements, promises of political appointments, and other personal advantages. We have also received disturbing accounts of threats, intimidation, blackmail, name-calling, and undue pressure directed at those who refuse to abandon their convictions. Oloriegbe said.
“We understand the burden you carry. We appreciate the price you are paying for standing on principle, and we assure you that the leadership of this movement stands firmly beside you.” He added.
In a major resolution, the movement unanimously rejected all candidates produced by Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for elective offices across the state.
The group described the candidates as a departure from the ideals of the Otoge revolution, alleging that the governor intends to use them to maintain political control beyond his constitutionally mandated two terms.
Former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Salman Jawondo, SAN in his remarks emphasized that protecting democratic values within the party remains a priority for the coalition.
At a prior stakeholders’ session held at Notkel, Ilorin, participants passed an open voice vote empowering the leadership of The Otoge Progressives to explore alternative political options for the 2027 elections. A dedicated committee was proposed to evaluate available options and submit recommendations within one week.
Despite internal friction within the state chapter, the coalition reaffirmed its unwavering alignment with the presidency.
A formal motion moved by the Senator representing Kwara Central, Senator Saliu Mustapha, passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and endorsed his 2027 re-election bid.
Prominent leaders in attendance included: Senators: Saliu Mustapha, Yahaya Oloriegbe, Sodiq Umar, Lola Ashiru, Ajadi Makanjuola, Ahmed Ahmed, and Bisi Oyewo, Chieftains & Legal Luminaries: Dele Belgore, SAN; Barrister Salman Jawondo, SAN, Amb. Yahaya Seriki-Gambari (rep), Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (rep), Hon. Bio Umar, Alhaji Tajudeen AbdulKadir Audu, Hon. Yinka Aluko, Mallam Adebayo Abdullateef Oloyin, and Alhaja Aishat Bolanle Ismail (Iya-Lamule).