Kwara State is emerging as one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political battlegrounds ahead of the 2027 general elections, as a deepening crisis within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a divided opposition fuel uncertainty over the state’s political future.
With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) closing the window for the submission and substitution of candidates, attention has shifted from party primaries to the fierce struggle for control of one of Nigeria’s strategically important states.
Despite remaining in power, the APC is battling one of its most serious internal crises in recent years. The emergence of Yakubu Danladi-Salihu as the party’s governorship candidate has triggered strong opposition from several party elders, lawmakers and former aspirants, who argue that the selection process failed to uphold transparency and internal democracy.
The disagreement has resulted in the formation of the G15, a coalition of influential APC stakeholders—including serving senators, members of the House of Representatives, state lawmakers and other party leaders—who say they are fighting to restore fairness, inclusion and collective leadership within the party.
Supporters of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq have defended the primary election as transparent and democratic, urging dissatisfied members to embrace reconciliation instead of allowing internal disputes to weaken the party before the 2027 polls.
Political analysts warn that prolonged infighting could shift the government’s attention away from pressing issues such as unemployment, insecurity, healthcare, infrastructure and the rising cost of living. They also caution that continued political uncertainty could affect investor confidence and slow the pace of development across the state.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of former Senate President Bukola Saraki in Kwara, is rebuilding its grassroots network in hopes of taking advantage of the APC’s internal divisions. However, analysts say the opposition must also convince voters that it offers practical solutions to the state’s economic and social challenges rather than relying solely on the ruling party’s troubles.
The political landscape has also been shaped by reports of shifting alliances and defections, adding fresh momentum to an election that is expected to be one of the state’s most competitive in years.
APC State Chairman Sunday Fagbemi has confirmed that a reconciliation committee has been established to resolve grievances and reunite party members before campaign activities begin. He appealed to aggrieved members to pursue dialogue through the party’s internal mechanisms.
For many residents, however, the focus extends beyond party politics. Voters are increasingly demanding leaders who can improve living standards, create jobs, strengthen public institutions and deliver accountable governance.
With about 1.7 million registered voters expected to decide the outcome, Kwara’s governorship race is becoming a key test of political unity, leadership and public confidence ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Whether the APC can overcome its internal crisis or the opposition can mount a successful comeback may ultimately shape not only the state’s future but also the broader national political landscape.
