Momentum appears to be building around the governorship ambition of one of the chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Alhaji Tajudeen Audu, popularly known as Makama, following a series of high-profile engagements across the state.
Makama formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election during a visit to the APC State Secretariat in Ilorin, where he was received by the State Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, alongside other party leaders and supporters.
Addressing party faithful, the Lafiagi-born politician unveiled his vision for a “greater Kwara,” anchored on improved security of lives and property, food security, human capital development and robust infrastructure. He stressed that his ambition was driven not by the quest for power but by a long-standing commitment to service and the welfare of the people.
“My motivation has always been service to the people. I believe strongly in a Kwara where development is not selective but inclusive, where every citizen can thrive,” he said.
Makama, who was among key stakeholders in the historic “Otoge” political movement, also reaffirmed his belief in the ideals of the APC and its capacity to deliver good governance, even as he acknowledged the achievements of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, noting, however, that there was still more ground to cover, particularly in the area of security.
Party leaders at the meetings underscored the need to consolidate on existing gains while also lending support to calls for power shift to Kwara North Senatorial District.
The declaration train later moved to his hometown, Lafiagi, where he formally joined the race amid cheers from supporters, signalling what observers describe as a growing wave of interest in his candidacy.
Makama first paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Lafiagi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mohammed Kudu Kawu, to seek royal blessings for his aspiration.
The visit turned into a grand homecoming, as a large crowd of supporters and well-wishers received him, chanting slogans and expressing solidarity.
At the palace, the monarch described Makama as an accomplished son of Lafiagi with a strong track record in philanthropy and public service, declaring him eminently qualified for the state’s top job.
The Emir also lent his voice to the agitation for equity in the state’s political arrangement, stressing that it was the turn of Kwara North to produce the next governor. He called on stakeholders across Kwara Central and Kwara South to support Makama’s candidacy in the interest of unity and balanced development.
Offering prayers for the aspirant, the royal father expressed hope that his ambition would succeed with ease.
With a statewide stakeholders’ engagement and the accompanying mega rally, political watchers say the early moves by the APC aspirant have begun to generate considerable interest, positioning his candidacy as one to watch in the unfolding 2027 governorship race in Kwara State.