The ongoing political friction in Kwara State took a dramatic turn as the state government halted the construction of the Sulu-Gambari Pavilion, a multi-million-naira project facilitated by Senator Saliu Mustapha.
The decision, enforced by officials of the Kwara State Town Planning and Development Authority alongside security personnel, has sparked fresh controversy.
The pavilion, commissioned under the Nigerian government and executed by Global Legend Conglomerate Ltd, was designed to serve as a permanent venue for the Ilorin Emirate’s Annual Durbar festival and other community events.
The Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, had reportedly approved the project facilitated by Sen. Saliu Mustapha, signaling its importance to the traditional institution.
While official reasons for the stoppage remain unclear, sources suggest that it stems from the growing political rift between Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Sen. Saliu Mustapha. Their relationship soured after the 2023 general elections, leading to visible confrontations between their supporters. The latest move appears to be another episode in this ongoing power struggle.
The state government has yet to issue a formal statement explaining why the construction was halted. However, political observers argue that the project’s significance to the Emirate should have shielded it from political interference. If true, this action raises concerns about whether governance in Kwara is being driven by public interest or personal rivalries.
With tensions mounting, it remains to be seen whether the state government will reconsider its stance or if Saliu Mustapha and his allies will seek alternative routes to complete the project. One thing is clear: the battle for political dominance in Kwara is far from over.
