The Kwara South Integrity Group (KSIG) has dismissed what it describes as a “misleading and sentimental” press statement issued by the Kwara 4 Kwara North Movement (K4KNM), insisting that zoning has no constitutional backing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and cannot determine the party’s choice of governorship candidate for 2027.
During a Press Conference which was held on Friday, December 5, 2025, the group led by its Convener, Segun David Buoye, said it felt compelled to clarify what it called “deliberate misconceptions” following its earlier release on December 3.
According to KSIG, every qualified party member across the three senatorial districts has an equal and legitimate right to contest for the governorship position, stressing that the party’s constitution encourages open participation rather than selective endorsement.
“Our position remains unchanged. The APC Constitution does not recognise zoning in candidate selection. Every aspirant is free to test their popularity through a democratic primary,” the group said.
APC Did Not Zone Presidency in 2023 – KSIG
The group also faulted K4KNM’s reference to the 2023 presidential election as evidence that the party applied zoning, describing the argument as “careless and historically inaccurate.”
KSIG argued that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not emerge through zoning but through nationwide support, political structure, and capacity after competing with several aspirants from all zones.
Traditional Rulers Should Not Be Dragged Into Politics
While acknowledging the cultural and moral authority of royal fathers, the group cautioned against involving traditional rulers in partisan politics.
The endorsement of an aspirant by “a few monarchs,” they said, does not reflect the political will of Kwara South and should not be presented as binding on millions of citizens.
“Traditional rulers are custodians of culture, not political decision-makers. It is dangerous and disrespectful to weaponise their influence in partisan contests,” the statement added.
Kwara South ‘Fully Prepared’ for 2027 Governorship Race
KSIG reaffirmed that Kwara South is ready to produce the next governor, citing what it described as the zone’s pool of competent aspirants, political experience, structure, and demonstrated leadership capacity.
The group noted that consultations are ongoing across the state, adding that its approach remains peaceful and constitutionally guided.
Group Rejects Attempts to Link Political Debate to Security Issues
Responding to K4KNM’s comments on insecurity, KSIG warned against politicising the region’s security concerns. It described attempts to use insecurity as a justification for zoning as “irresponsible.”
The group referenced the recent kidnapping of the King of Bayagan, who remains in captivity, as evidence of the urgent need for a coordinated government response.
“Security challenges cannot be solved through zoning propaganda. Political imbalance does not cause kidnapping or bandit attacks,” the group stated.
Appeal to Youths
KSIG also addressed young supporters of the zoning agenda, urging them to avoid insults and embrace mature political engagement.
“Politics is not war, and democracy thrives on ideas, not abuse,” the statement noted, encouraging youths to promote their preferred aspirants without attacking others.
The group reiterated its loyalty to the APC Constitution, the party’s leadership at all levels, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It expressed readiness to support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer after the primaries.
2027 Will Be Decided By the People
KSIG concluded by urging the Kwara 4 Kwara North Movement to allow its preferred aspirant to compete on equal terms rather than rely on endorsements.
“2027 will be decided by the people, not noise, not threats, and not false narratives,” the group stated.
