Opinion: Kwara South Stands Tall: Beyond Political Servitude, Democracy Demands Equal Entitlement

By Aisha Sulaiman

Since the advent of democracy in Kwara State in 1999, Kwara Central has dominated the gubernatorial landscape, producing three governors, while Kwara South has seen only one and Kwara North remains unrepresented

This historical context prompts vital questions about political representation, equity, and the future of governance in Kwara State. Current political discussions suggest a potential transfer of the gubernatorial baton to Kwara North. However, this perspective oversimplifies the complex realities of Kwara’s political dynamics.

Kwara Central has held power for an extended period, producing three governors since 1999. Shouldn’t they lead the charge for a power shift, given their historical dominance? Numerous unanswered questions linger regarding this power dynamic. Is it reasonable to expect Kwara South to step aside, or should Kwara Central take the initiative in ceding power? The people of Kwara State deserve clarity on these matters.

Politics in Kwara State transcends mere numerical representation; it encompasses influence, negotiation, and strategic power dynamics. The reluctance of Kwara Central to relinquish its grip on power—despite producing the most governors—highlights a deeper issue: a political culture entrenched in self-interest.

However, pivotal questions arise: Where are the voices of Kwara central ? Why are discussions regarding the negations of the next governorship beginning in Kwara South? Shouldn’t they originate in Kwara Central, where they’ve had an equitable share  of power? It’s only fair that Kwara Central serves as the starting point for these negotiations, rather than using Kwara South as a mere stepping stone. Kwara South deserves equal consideration and opportunities rather than being treated as a means to an end.

Recently, some self-appointed stakeholders from Kwara South have been utilizing their alliance to champion a power shift to the North. However, it’s crucial to note that these individuals hold no official position to speak on behalf of the entire zone. Instead, they seem to be advancing their personal interests and agendas rather than genuinely representing the collective aspirations of Kwara South

As Kwara State approaches the next electoral cycle, it is crucial for citizens to engage in meaningful dialogue. Kwara South must resist being treated as political pawns and actively participate in discussions about their aspirations, political values, and the future they envision for their region.

However, it’s important to set the record straight. Those leading the chant for Kwara North Agenda from Kwara South, who shared the same right, are mere political jobbers from a particular party, using Dr. Thomas Adewumi for the divide and rule games. In other words, Dr. Adewunmi can not lead the voice of Kwara South towards the interest of certain numbers of people.

Aisha Sulaiman writes from Offa, and she can be reached via laraaisha40@gmail.com

The post Opinion: Kwara South Stands Tall: Beyond Political Servitude, Democracy Demands Equal Entitlement first appeared on CONFIDENCE NEWS NG.