As the countdown to the 2027 general elections begins to shape the political landscape in Kwara State, a coalition of youth and women groups has called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi as its candidate for the Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency.
In a statement titled “Clarion Call for Tested Competence,” and made available to 9japarrot media, the coalition urged the national leadership of the APC under Nentawe Yilwatda, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) and the state party chairman, Chief Sunday Fagbemi to rally behind the former commissioner, citing his “uncommon administrative capacity” and deep-rooted grassroots connection.
Dr. Abolore, an indigene of Iponrin in Ilorin East, was described as a distinguished technocrat whose academic and professional credentials place him in a prime position for legislative duties.
A PhD holder in Estate Management from the University of Lagos and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (FNIVS), Abolore is touted by supporters as a man adequately prepared for the complex responsibilities of the Green Chamber.
The coalition highlighted Abolore’s meritorious service in three strategic ministries under the current administration of Governor AbdulRazaq between 2022 and 2026, in Tertiary Education, where he droved reforms in state-owned institutions and in Solid Minerals Development, where he advanced economic diversification.
His most recent assignment as Commisoner for Agriculture, where he focused on food security and rural empowerment gives him an edge over others, said the group.
“Across these portfolios, Dr. Abolore distinguished himself as a result-oriented public servant with verifiable impact and effective leadership capacity,” the statement read.
Beyond his administrative resume, the group noted that Abolore’s performance in the 2022 APC primaries, where he emerged as the first runner-up, proves his widespread acceptance among party faithful.
His philanthropic efforts through the Deji Alabi Youths Empowerment Foundation and SWELF were also cited as key factors in his popularity. These initiatives have reportedly provided educational support and empowerment tools to thousands of artisans, students, and vulnerable persons across both Ilorin East and Ilorin South.
The coalition maintained that Abolore’s aspiration aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of agricultural growth and youth development.
“At a time when the constituency requires a vibrant, intellectually sound, and accessible representative capable of attracting federal opportunities, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi clearly stands out as the best-suited aspirant for the job,” the coalition stated.
The call ends with an appeal to party elders and progressive-minded constituents to prioritize “tested competence” to ensure quality representation and inclusive leadership for the federal constituency in 2027.