Mallam Bolaji Gobir, Convener of the Garin Alimi Ambassadors, has called for the governorship of Kwara State in 2027 to remain in the Ilorin Emirate zone, citing demographic strength, economic centrality and the need for policy continuity.
Addressing journalists and stakeholders, Gobir described the debate over zoning ahead of the 2027 governorship election as a critical moment in the political evolution of the state. He argued that sustaining leadership from the Ilorin Emirate would promote stability, democratic maturity and sustained socio-economic development.
According to him, Kwara’s Central Senatorial District – which largely overlaps with the Ilorin Emirate and includes Asa, Ilorin West, Ilorin South, Ilorin East and Moro local government areas – remains the state’s most populous zone.
He noted that Ilorin, the state capital, accounts for the largest concentration of residents and economic activity in the state.
Gobir stressed that the demographic weight of the Central zone translates into a significant share of the state’s human capital, which he described as fundamental to democratic representation and productivity.
He added that as the commercial and financial hub of the state, Ilorin hosts major banking institutions, industries and service providers, contributing substantially to internally generated revenue.
On development, the Convener pointed to ongoing multi-year projects, including digital infrastructure initiatives such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub and other ICT-driven investments, as well as urban renewal and satellite town expansion plans.
He warned that disrupting the current leadership trajectory could slow down or undermine these initiatives.
“Democratic governance is not merely about rotation; it is about continuity of progress,” he said, arguing that policy consistency and institutional memory are vital to consolidating existing gains.
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Gobir, however, maintained that his advocacy was not intended to marginalize other senatorial districts. He acknowledged that Kwara North and Kwara South also possess capable leaders, noting that democracy thrives on competition, inclusivity and merit.
He emphasized that equity in governance should prioritize competence, fairness and measurable developmental impact rather than strict rotational arrangements.
According to him, the Ilorin Emirate has consistently produced qualified leaders with the administrative and professional capacity required for executive office.
The Garin Alimi Ambassadors, he said, would support any political party that zones its 2027 governorship ticket to Ilorin Emirate, pledging to foster unity and collaborate with stakeholders across all districts to promote shared prosperity.
He urged political leaders and party stalwarts at both state and national levels to consider what he described as the demographic and developmental realities of Kwara State when making zoning decisions.
Gobir concluded by calling for respectful and issue-based discourse ahead of the election season, stressing that leadership should ultimately be about service to all Kwarans, regardless of origin.
“Our democracy thrives when debates are conducted in the spirit of mutual respect and when leadership is defined by what one brings to the service of the people,” he said.
