Kwara North group rejects Senator Sadiq Umar’s third-term bid, insists on zoning

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The Patigi Emirate Development Union has rejected any move by Senator Sadiq Sulaiman Umar to seek a third term in the Senate in 2027, insisting that the Kwara North senatorial seat should rotate to Patigi Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the union said the long-standing zoning arrangement in Kwara North had promoted political harmony, fairness and mutual trust among the constituent LGAs.

PEDU explained that the rotational formula allows each council in the district to occupy the senatorial seat for two terms or eight years before power shifts to another area.

The union maintained that it was justifiable and appropriate for the 2027 Kwara North Senatorial mandate to be ceded to Patigi LGA in line with the established arrangement.

According to PEDU, Patigi Emirate has consistently remained loyal to political leaders and successive administrations in Kwara North while supporting the collective interest and stability of the district.

The group further urged Senator Umar to abandon any plan to contest again in 2027 and instead prioritise the unity, peace and stability of Kwara North over personal political ambition.

PEDU also appealed to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to recognise the political loyalty and contributions of the Patigi Emirate by ensuring fairness and inclusion in the party’s decision on the 2027 senatorial ticket.

While reaffirming its commitment to democratic engagement and party unity, the union warned that ignoring the zoning arrangement or denying Patigi the opportunity to produce the next senator could trigger political tension and force stakeholders in the emirate to explore other political alternatives.