KWARA VOICE

APC Stakeholders in Kano, Jigawa, Katsina Defect to Accord Party, Back Gbenga Hashim for 2027.

Say North-West Ready for New Political Direction

A growing number of former members and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina States have declared support for the Accord Party and the presidential aspiration of Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The declarations were made during separate mobilisation meetings held across the three states, where political leaders, grassroots mobilisers, women leaders, and youth stakeholders pledged their commitment to building support for Hashim's candidacy.

The stakeholders said their decision was informed by widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of governance, rising economic hardship, persistent insecurity, and what they described as a growing disconnect between government and ordinary Nigerians.

According to them, having worked actively for the APC in previous elections, they now believe Nigeria requires a fresh political direction and a leadership alternative capable of addressing the nation's challenges.

Speaking at a stakeholders' meeting in Kano, Mallam Goje Bashir, a former APC stakeholder who defected to the Accord Party alongside hundreds of supporters, said many party faithful had become disillusioned with the current administration.
"I was an APC member, but President Tinubu has failed Nigeria. I am now openly declaring support for Dr. Gbenga Hashim of the Accord Party," he said.

Bashir described Hashim as a leader with the capacity to unite Nigerians and provide a credible alternative to the existing political order.
"The people of Kano and the entire North will queue behind him in 2027," he added.

Also speaking, Hajia Rabi Fagge, a former APC chieftain, said a political realignment was already underway across northern Nigeria as citizens seek leadership focused on accountability, development, and national renewal.
"Northern Nigeria will deliver victory for Gbenga Hashim in 2027 to rescue ordinary Nigerians," she stated.

Similar sentiments were expressed by stakeholders in Jigawa and Katsina States, who said Nigerians were increasingly looking for leaders capable of restoring security, rebuilding the economy, and improving citizens' welfare.

Hashim Progressive Movement Women Leader, Ambassador Aisha Ibrahim, said the region that played a significant role in the 2023 elections was now preparing for another major political shift.
"We promised to deliver Tinubu in 2023 and we did. We are now promising to deliver Gbenga Hashim in 2027, and by the grace of God, we will deliver," she said.

Jigawa State Coordinator, Hon. Abdulrasheed Ali, who led mobilisation efforts across the state's 27 local government areas, described Hashim as a leader of integrity and credibility.
"Nigeria needs truthful leaders, and Gbenga Hashim represents that vision," he said.

In Katsina State, Coordinator Muhammad Abdullahi expressed confidence in Hashim's growing appeal among voters searching for an alternative political platform.
He said public sentiment had shifted considerably due to prevailing economic realities and hardship faced by many Nigerians.
"When we say 'Sai Hashim,' the response will be 'Sabo Nigeria' , a New Nigeria," he declared.

Representatives of Dr. Hashim accompanied by the FCT Coordinator of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, Mallam Abubakar Kana, described the endorsements as further evidence of growing cross-party support for Hashim's message of democratic renewal, accountability, and inclusive governance.

They said the movement remains open to Nigerians from all political backgrounds who believe the country requires a new direction and pledged to continue building grassroots structures across the federation.

According to them, Hashim's political agenda is centred on national rebuilding, economic recovery, security, job creation, and improving the welfare of ordinary citizens.

The latest wave of defections and endorsements is expected to strengthen the Accord Party's grassroots expansion efforts in Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina States, with supporters pledging to deepen mobilisation efforts at ward and local government levels ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political observers note that the North-West remains one of Nigeria's most influential electoral blocs, making any significant political movement within the region potentially consequential for future national elections.

Observers also point to Dr. Hashim's historical connection to the region through his late father, who hailed from Yauri in Kebbi State and was widely regarded as an influential Northern prince, a factor some supporters believe could further enhance his appeal across parts of the North-West.

Adewole Ward APC Executives Raise Concerns Over Alleged Marginalisation, Seek Audience with Governor AbdulRazaq

The executive members of Adewole Ward of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ilorin West Local Government Area have expressed concerns over what they described as years of political neglect and limited access to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, calling for greater inclusiveness and engagement with grassroots party structures.

In an open letter addressed to the Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the ward executives said repeated efforts over the past seven years to secure an audience with the governor to discuss issues affecting the ward had been unsuccessful.

The letter, signed by the ward's Legal Adviser, Malik Wasiu, on behalf of the executives, stated that members of the ward played active roles in the political movement that brought the APC administration to power in 2019 and had expected a more inclusive approach to governance and party administration.

According to the executives, many party members in Adewole Ward are concerned about what they perceive as the ward's declining political relevance despite its contributions to the APC’s electoral successes in the state.

The group argued that political leaders and stakeholders from the ward have not received adequate recognition or opportunities compared to their counterparts in other parts of the state, a development they said has generated frustration among some party faithful.

The executives also raised concerns over what they described as the marginalisation of some political figures and their supporters within party structures, warning that such perceptions could affect party cohesion if not properly addressed.

They maintained that their intervention was not motivated by personal interests or demands for appointments but by concerns about the future political development of Adewole Ward and the need to strengthen grassroots participation within the APC.

While reaffirming their loyalty to the ruling party, the ward executives stressed that many grassroots members who worked for the party's success in previous elections feel disconnected from decision-making processes and governance opportunities.

The letter further urged the governor to deepen engagement with ward executives and party stakeholders, promote inclusiveness, and ensure that grassroots structures are adequately recognised and carried along in party affairs.

The executives warned that continued neglect of grassroots structures could affect the morale and mobilisation capacity of party members ahead of future political contests.

Despite their concerns, they reiterated their commitment to the APC and expressed hope that the governor would address the issues raised in the interest of party unity, political stability, and the continued development of Kwara State.

BREAKING: INEC Declear Biodun Oyebanji of APC Winner 2026 Ekiti Governorship Election with 319,224 Votes to Defeats ADC, PDP Candidates

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared the winner of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election after securing a commanding victory across the state.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that Oyebanji polled 319,224 votes to defeat his closest rivals in the keenly contested election held on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

According to the official results released by the electoral umpire, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Olusola Oluyede, came a distant second, while the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kemi Bejide, finished third.

The outcome underscores the APC's continued dominance in Ekiti State, with Governor Oyebanji recording victories in the majority of the local government areas and maintaining a substantial lead throughout the collation process.

The declaration was made by the Returning Officer for the election after the completion of results collation from all 16 local government areas of the state. The announcement was greeted with jubilation by APC supporters, who gathered at various locations across Ado-Ekiti and other parts of the state to celebrate the victory.

Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the people of Ekiti State for renewing their mandate and reaffirming confidence in his administration. He described the result as a victory for democracy and pledged to continue delivering on his campaign promises.

The governor also extended an olive branch to his opponents, urging all political stakeholders to unite in the interest of the state's development. He assured residents that his second term would focus on consolidating ongoing projects and advancing economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and job creation.

Meanwhile, party leaders and supporters have described the outcome as a reflection of public approval of Oyebanji's performance in office. They noted that the governor's grassroots engagement, infrastructural interventions, and governance style contributed significantly to the overwhelming support he received at the polls.

The election was monitored by security agencies, election observers, and civil society groups, with reports indicating that voting and collation were generally peaceful across most parts of the state.

With the declaration, Governor Oyebanji is set to begin another four-year term at the helm of affairs in Ekiti State, further strengthening the APC's political hold on the South-West state.

Rukayat Sh*ttu Delivers Landmark Energy Reform as Kwara Enacts Electricity Law

Nigeria’s youngest serving lawmaker, Hon. Rukayat Sh*ttu, has achieved a major legislative milestone as the Kwara State Electric Power Sector Reform Bill, 2025, sponsored by her, has been enacted into law.

The landmark legislation positions Kwara State among the emerging leaders in Nigeria’s energy decentralisation movement, creating a modern framework for state level participation in electricity generation, distribution, regulation, and investment.

The new law comes at a critical time when reliable electricity remains one of Nigeria’s biggest development challenges.

By providing a legal foundation for innovative energy solutions, the reform seeks to unlock investment, promote independent power projects, support renewable energy development, and improve access to electricity across Kwara.

The passage of the bill reflects Hon. Rukayat Sh*ttu’s commitment to using legislative intervention to address practical challenges affecting citizens and businesses.

Energy experts have consistently identified electricity as the foundation of industrialisation, agriculture, digital transformation, and job creation. With this reform, Kwara is better positioned to leverage its energy potential to drive economic growth and improve productivity.

The legislation aligns with the opportunities created by the Electricity Act, 2023, which opened the space for greater subnational involvement in the power sector.

Speaking on the development, Hon. Sh*ttu described the enactment as “a new chapter in Kwara’s energy journey,” noting that the goal is to build a system where energy becomes a catalyst for investment, innovation, and prosperity.

She expressed appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his support and commitment to reforms that strengthen the state’s development agenda.

She also commended the leadership and members of the Kwara State House of Assembly, stakeholders, energy professionals, and citizens whose contributions helped shape the legislation.

The enactment of the law further highlights the growing role of younger lawmakers in advancing forward looking policies that respond to infrastructure challenges and prepare states for future economic opportunities.

With this milestone, Kwara takes a strategic step toward building a more resilient, decentralised, and investment driven energy ecosystem.

Many Injured As Police Raid Club In Kwara Poly

Several students were reportedly injured on Monday following a police operation at a popular recreational spot, Ace Club located in Akuo behind Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred when security operatives stormed the club during an operation, causing panic among students who were present at the club.

According to sources who spoke on condition of anonymity with 9japarrot media, the sudden arrival of the officers triggered a stampede as students and guests attempted to leave the premises, resulting in varying degrees of injuries.

Some of the affected individuals were said to have sustained bruises and minor injuries while trying to escape the scene. At least 16 individuals were reportedly arrested.

“People started running in different directions immediately they saw the police. In the confusion, several people fell and got injured,” A student who witnessed the incident said.

Another witness claimed that some students jumped fences and obstacles in a bid to avoid arrest, contributing to the number of injuries recorded.

The exact reason for the operation could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report. However, sources within the institution suggested that the raid may have been connected to an ongoing security enforcement exercise in the area.

Meanwhile, the Kwara State Police Command has not issued an official reaction to the incident. Similarly, the management of Kwara State Polytechnic are yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident at the time of this report.

The unfortunate incident has generated reactions among students, with some calling for improved communication between security agencies and educational institutions to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Credit: Balikis Olaide | 9japarrot

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Condemns Deregistration of Opposition Parties as Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy.
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•Accord State Chairmen Welcome Gbenga Hashim’s Emergence as 2027 Presidential Candidate•

Twenty three state chairmen of the Accord Party have endorsed and formally welcomed the emergence of Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, describing his candidacy as a unifying force and a credible platform for national renewal.

In a joint statement issued on Saturday, June 13, the chairmen said their position followed extensive consultations and a collective acceptance of his emergence through the party’s presidential primaries.

They affirmed that his emergence reflects the democratic will of party members and reaffirmed their full support for his candidacy ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that internal party democracy must be respected by all stakeholders.

The chairmen noted that their position comes amid ongoing internal disputes within the Accord Party over differing interpretations of the presidential primary process and its outcome.

According to sources close to the meeting, several other state chairmen who were unable to attend the Abuja gathering also conveyed their endorsement of the position through consultations.

The initiative was spearheaded by the chairmen of the Lagos and Kaduna State chapters of the party and is said to enjoy the support of a majority of members of the National Working Committee.

The forum maintained that Gbenga Hashim’s emergence represents the legitimate outcome of a democratic process and called on all stakeholders within the party to uphold unity, discipline, and respect for internal democratic structures.

They described him as a unifying figure with the capacity to address Nigeria’s pressing economic and security challenges, citing his ideological grounding, democratic credentials, and long-standing involvement in pro-democracy struggles.

The chairmen further highlighted his $4 trillion economic blueprint, focused on industrialisation, energy expansion, job creation, and the unlocking of stranded national assets as a pathway to national transformation.

They urged party members and supporters to close ranks and rally behind what they described as a credible opportunity for the Accord Party to present a strong, disciplined, and competitive alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Democracy Day: Hon. Rukayat Sh*ttu Calls for Unity, Accountability and Support for Democratic Values.

The Member representing Owode/Onire Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Rukayat Sh*ttu, has urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic principles, peaceful coexistence, and national development as the country commemorates the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

In a statement issued on Thursday to mark the occasion, Hon. Sh*ttu joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the nation's democratic journey while paying tribute to the heroes and heroines whose sacrifices laid the foundation for the democratic freedoms enjoyed today.

She described June 12 as a historic reminder that democracy extends beyond periodic elections, emphasizing that it also entails collective responsibility, accountability, inclusiveness, and service to the people.

According to the lawmaker, despite the challenges that have confronted Nigeria's democratic process over the years, the country has continued to record progress through constitutional governance and the strengthening of democratic institutions.

Hon. Sh*ttu called on citizens across the country to uphold democratic values, promote unity, and contribute positively to the growth and development of their communities.

"We must continue to reject division, embrace unity, and work together in the interest of a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria," she stated.

The legislator also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and Nigerians for their various contributions towards sustaining democracy in the country.

She further urged citizens to renew their commitment to building a nation where peace, security, justice, and equal opportunities thrive for all.

Hon. Sh*ttu wished Nigerians, particularly the people of Kwara State, a happy and memorable Democracy Day celebration, expressing optimism about the future of the nation's democracy.

We demand changes, but are we citizens (youth) ready to do the work it takes?

Ironically, the same young people who advocate for free, fair, and peaceful elections frequently overlook issue-based campaigns that are essential to the advancement of our state while devoting their time to making fun of candidates. Is that how we create a better nation?

Sadly, this is now our usual practice. We pay less attention to manifestos, focus on what benefits us personally, and promote individual interests. Meanwhile, we forget to put our country first. Is that patriotism?

We need to stop being instruments of destruction.

Let us build capacity and character so that our voices carry weight in shaping our nation.

To our Leaders; Nigerians are in pain, and lives are being lost daily, hunger is real. It is time for you to rise to the occasion and fulfill your duty of care to the people.

For one month now, the pupils and teacher abducted in Oyo have remained in the hands of bandits, enduring untold suffering. Sadly, this is not isolated to Oyo. Citizens across many states face the same threat. We call on the government to act urgently and secure their safe return.

As citizens; we also have duties. On Election Day, our priority should be to exercise our right to vote, and monitoring our votes but avoid to engage in distractions. We must also stop the spread of fake news. For democracy to work, government needs our cooperation. By engaging leaders on the right issues, we position ourselves to hold them accountable.

In Politics, there are 2 sides; Ruling party and Opposition. Both have jobs to do if we want Nigeria to be great.

The duty of the ruling party is governance. They must hear the cry of the people and provide sustainable solutions. While the role of the opposition is oversight. They must avoid propaganda, speak for the masses with facts, and hold the ruling party accountable through proper channels.

In conclusion, our government needs to give us the system that works. As a rich country, we need a good governance.

Nigeria will be great again, in my belief. But change starts with you. Change starts with me.






It’s Democracy day!

Abdulganiy Olamilekan Esinrogunjo

DAROSA CONGRATULATES SHEIKH MUHAMMAD BASHIR DASUKI ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS CHIEF IMAM OF ILORIN

The Chief Executive Officer of Darosa Properties Management and Construction Ltd., Hon. Dr. Makanjuola Yahaya Lanre Darosa, has congratulated Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki on his appointment as the new Chief Imam of Ilorin, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his profound Islamic knowledge, exemplary character, and dedication to the service of Islam and humanity.

Dr-Lanre Darosa noted that he has known Sheikh Dasuki for many years and can attest to his humility, simplicity, accessibility, and genuine concern for the well-being of others. He expressed confidence that the new Chief Imam will provide sound spiritual leadership, strengthen unity among Muslims, and promote Islamic values across the Ilorin Emirate and beyond.

He also commended our royal father, the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR for the appointment, describing it as a wise decision that reflects his commitment to preserving the religious and cultural heritage of the Emirate.

Dr. Darosa prayed that Almighty Allah grants Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance in the discharge of his responsibilities, and blesses his tenure with peace, progress, and abundant success.