As political calculations intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State, the debate over zoning within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken center stage. Among the competing arguments, one position stands out for both its logic and its grounding in political reality: zoning the party’s governorship ticket to Kwara North is not a gamble – it is a strategy for victory.
Contrary to claims that such a move could weaken the APC’s chances, available electoral evidence and data suggests the opposite. A careful assessment of voting patterns, grassroots mobilization, and party loyalty across the state reveals that Kwara North represents the party’s most organic, reliable and cohesive political base.
Over the years, Kwara North has distinguished itself through an uncommon level of unity and discipline. In a political environment often marked by shifting allegiances, the district has remained remarkably consistent in its support for the APC, particularly since the political realignments of 2015 which formed the APC and positioned it to lead Kwara after the Otoge’ political revolution. This consistency is not incidental. It is rooted in an age long political culture defined by deep coordination, trust, and a shared sense of purpose.
Elections in the district are approached not as isolated contests but as collective undertakings. The results as were seen in 2015, 2019 and 2023 is a dependable voting bloc capable of delivering not just victories, but decisive margins that shape statewide outcomes. In modern electoral politics, such reliability is invaluable.
It is therefore misleading to portray Kwara North as a peripheral player. On the contrary, it has become the backbone of the APC’s electoral strength in the state. While other regions occasionally contend with internal divisions and fluctuating loyalties, Kwara North has remained steadfast – mobilizing voters effectively, maintaining cohesion, and resisting/weakening opposition advances.
The 2023 general elections offered further confirmation of this reality. Despite targeted efforts by opposition parties to penetrate the district through candidate selection and intensified grassroots campaigns the APC retained its dominance. This was not merely a routine victory; it was a reaffirmation of the region’s political consciousness and loyalty to party structure.
Importantly, the case for zoning to Kwara North should not be framed in sentimental terms. It is not about mere appeasement or concession. It is a strategic decision grounded in electoral pragmatism.
First, zoning to Kwara North would consolidate an already strong base, likely boosting voter turnout and deepening engagement. Secondly, it would reinforce a sense of fairness and inclusion across the state, strengthening party unity. Third, it offers a pathway for broader electoral expansion, as a candidate from the district properly positioned will attract support beyond regional lines, especially when complemented by a balanced running mate on the ticket.
Equally significant is the depth of leadership available within the district. Kwara North is not lacking in credible aspirants. It boasts a pool of experienced, competent, and widely acceptable individuals with the administrative capacity and political appeal required for effective governance of the state. The issue, therefore, is not about availability of qualified candidates, but about selecting the most suitable among many capable options.
At a time when political parties across the country grapple with internal discord, the APC in Kwara State has an opportunity to reinforce its image as a platform built on equity and justice. Zoning to Kwara North would send a clear signal that loyalty is rewarded, contributions are acknowledged, and every region has a stake in the party’s future.
Conversely, overlooking the district carries risks. Political decisions are not judged solely by their outcomes, but also by their perception. A move seen as dismissive or unjust could dampen morale, reduce enthusiasm, and inadvertently create opportunities for opposition forces.
As 2027 approaches, the APC must resist fear-driven narratives and instead adopt a forward-looking strategy that builds on its strengths. Zoning the governorship ticket to Kwara North aligns with this objective. However, zoning alone is not sufficient. The process must be transparent, credible, and competitive, ensuring that the eventual candidate emerges through merit and broad-based consensus.
The path to victory is neither obscure nor complicated. It lies in consolidating strongholds, rewarding loyalty, and making decisions that reflect political realities.
Kwara North is not a liability. It is the APC’s most dependable advantage in sustaining it’s reign in Kwara State beyond 2027.
The choice before the party is clear: build on this strength and secure a decisive victory, or ignore it and risk avoidable uncertainty. The prudent path is evident.
© Aliu Olalekan Lateef (Ilorin South LGA (Balogun Fulani II), Kwara Central Senatorial District