A dramatic scene played out in Kwara State on Wednesday as a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, announced his ambition only to withdraw moments later in support of another contender.
Mahmud, who hails from Kwara North Senatorial District, stepped down in favour of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari, citing the need for unity and strategic alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
Explaining his initial interest in the race, Mahmud said his aspiration was driven by the long-standing exclusion of Kwara North from producing a governor.
He, however, disclosed that consultations with party stakeholders influenced his decision to back Seriki, whom he described as better positioned to unify the state and deliver inclusive development.
“For nearly three decades, Kwara North has remained loyal without producing a governor. While I pursued this cause in the interest of fairness, I have resolved to step aside in the collective interest of our party and the state,” he said.
The aspirant, popularly known as Dan’iyan Kaiama, said his withdrawal should not be seen as a setback but a deliberate move to strengthen party cohesion.
He described Seriki as a bridge-builder with a strong record in youth empowerment and grassroots mobilisation, adding that his candidature aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
“This decision is not a retreat but a sacrifice for unity and progress,” he added.
The announcement, made at an event centre along Old Offa Road in Ilorin, drew applause from party members and supporters.
Mahmud also commended both federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, for their response to the recent Woro incident, urging sustained efforts to secure the release of abducted victims.
The development is seen as a significant move within the APC in Kwara State as political actors intensify alignments ahead of the 2027 governorship contest.
