By Ajewole Joshua|ABNews|December 3, 2025
A political advocacy group under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kwara Integrity Group South, has rejected recent political comments credited to some traditional rulers in Kwara South, including the Olofa of Offa, over reported support for the emergence of the next governor of Kwara State from Kwara North.
In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Buoye David Olusegun of Omu-Aran Ward 2, and made available to ABNews, the group described the alleged endorsement as misleading and unrepresentative of the wishes and aspirations of the people of Kwara South.
“They are our respected traditional fathers, but they are not political leaders or political representatives. Traditional rulers are custodians of culture and unity, not instruments for political bargaining,” the group stated.
Concern Over Insecurity in Kwara South
The group expressed frustration over the persistent insecurity in the zone, noting that bandit attacks, killings, kidnappings and displacement of communities have continued unchecked in several parts of Kwara South.
It referenced the recent kidnapping of the King of Bayagan, who, according to the statement, remains in captivity, adding that no emergency meeting or collective position was taken by the monarchs to demand urgent government response.
“Yet they found time to gather and endorse a zoning arrangement that brings no value to the suffering people of Kwara South. This selective concern is unacceptable,” Comrade Buoye said on behalf of the group.
“Kwara South Is Not Politically Empty”
The Kwara Integrity Group South insisted that the district is blessed with capable and credible individuals who are qualified to govern the state.
According to the statement, Kwara South possesses both the political structure and human capacity to produce the next governor in 2027.
“We have people who can lead with integrity, vision and fairness. Kwara South is not politically empty,” the group affirmed.
Traditional Rulers Urged to Remain Neutral
The group advised traditional rulers to concentrate on their primary responsibilities as custodians of culture and instruments of unity, stressing that involvement in partisan politics undermines public trust in the traditional institution.
It maintained that any monarch who desires to participate in partisan politics should resign from the throne and formally join a political party.
The group also pointed out that the APC constitution does not recognise zoning, insisting that no traditional ruler has the authority to direct party members on whom to support.
Drawing from the 2019 general elections, the group noted that some traditional rulers who openly supported opposition parties still lost in their own polling units.
“Power belongs to the people, not the palace,” the statement emphasized.
Commitment to APC and Democratic Process
While affirming its belief that Kwara South deserves the governorship in 2027, the group acknowledged the constitutional right of every qualified APC member across the three senatorial districts to contest for the seat.
It reaffirmed its loyalty to the APC and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as consistent efforts to reposition the country.
Kwara South Declares Readiness for 2027
The statement concluded with a bold declaration that Kwara South is ready to produce the next governor of the state in 2027, pledging to pursue the ambition through peaceful, strategic and democratic engagement.
“Kwara South will no longer be politically sidelined. Our commitment is to a peaceful, progressive and working Kwara,” Comrade Buoye stated.
The group offered prayers for Kwara South, Kwara State and Nigeria, while also affirming continued support for the APC.
Signed:
Comrade Buoye David Olusegun
President, Kwara Integrity Group South (APC)
Omu-Aran Ward 2
