Governorship aspirant steps down two minutes after declaration

There was a dramatic turn of events in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, as an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Prince Haliru Dantsoho Mahmud, declared his ambition only to step down barely two minutes later in support of “a better fellow aspirant,” Ambassador Yahaya Seriki Gambari.

Both men are from the Kwara North senatorial district, a region many believe has long been marginalised in the race for the state’s top political office.

Mahmud, also known as Dan’iyan Kaiama, said his decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders and supporters.

“For nearly three decades, Kwara North has stood as a loyal pillar of support to other senatorial districts but has not been given the opportunity to lead. This is not just unfair; it is disheartening,” he said. “The call for justice—‘Let Kwara North lead’—has grown louder.”

He noted that he had been one of the strongest advocates of the agitation for equity, stressing that fairness is essential for unity and progress.

Addressing APC leaders, supporters, and journalists at an events centre along Old Offa Road in GRA, Ilorin, Mahmud said he initially aspired like any other qualified candidate but chose to withdraw after careful reflection.

“Today, I step aside not in defeat, but in hope and faith that, together under Ambassador Seriki, Kwara will rise to new heights of growth, stability, and shared prosperity,” he said to loud applause from party supporters.

Reflecting on the political history of Kwara North since 1999, Mahmud observed that the district remains the only senatorial zone yet to produce a governor.

The former State Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) explained that his decision was driven by the need for unity at a critical time.
“Our state needs a unifier—someone who can heal divisions and bring our people closer together,” he said, describing Seriki as that figure.

“This is not a retreat; it is a rallying call. It is not weakness, but wisdom. It is not surrender, but sacrifice for unity and progress,” he added.

Mahmud further justified his decision by describing Seriki as a loyal party member with unwavering support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, noting that his alignment with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu makes him a stronger contender.

According to him, Seriki’s track record in youth empowerment, grassroots development, and community bridge-building positions him well for the governorship race.

“He is not just a qualified candidate; he is a bridge between past achievements and future possibilities,” Mahmud said.

He also commended President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, and security agencies for their response to the recent Woro incident, while urging authorities to intensify efforts to rescue abducted victims.

“True leadership is measured not only in policies but in compassion,” he added.