Aug 21, 2026

Kwara Senator Resigns from APC Over Party Crisis, Leadership Issues

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics

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Ilorin / Abuja – August 21, 2026 — Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin Emirate and representative of Kwara Central Senatorial District, has formally resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing recent developments within the party’s Kwara State chapter that he said no longer align with the principles of collective unity and internal democracy.

In a resignation letter dated August 14, 2026, and addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Gambari Ward 1 in Ilorin East Local Government Area, Mustapha announced that the decision takes effect immediately.

He made the letter public on Thursday evening via his social media platforms.

“Not a Decision Taken Lightly”

Mustapha emphasized that the move followed weeks of extensive consultations with stakeholders, supporters, constituents across Kwara Central, and other well-meaning Kwarans.

“As a politician, I have always believed that politics must be about people, principles and purpose. Where the path of a political platform no longer sufficiently aligns with these convictions and the aspirations of the people one represents, the honourable thing to do is to chart a new course,” he stated.

In the formal letter, he noted that he joined the APC as a founding member committed to good governance, unity and service to the people.

However, he said recent developments — particularly the leadership of the party in Kwara State — had departed from those founding principles and eroded his confidence.

Background of Growing Tensions

The resignation comes amid deepening internal crisis in the Kwara APC following the party’s 2027 governorship primary.

Mustapha had been a prominent contender for the ticket but lost to the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi Salihu (also referred to as Salihu Yahaya Danladi).

Several aspirants and stakeholders, including members of the G15/TOP group with which Mustapha was associated, had protested what they described as imposition and lack of internal democracy.

Despite the setback, Mustapha expressed deep gratitude to the national leadership of the APC, especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the relationships and experiences gained over the years.

He assured his constituents and supporters that while his political platform may change, his principles, purpose, and commitment to the people of Kwara Central, Kwara State, and Nigeria remain unchanged.

Political Implications Ahead of 2027

Mustapha’s exit is widely viewed as a significant development in Kwara’s political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As a first-term senator and influential figure in Ilorin Emirate, his departure adds to the list of high-profile defections and internal challenges facing the ruling party in the state.

Political observers note that the senator’s next move — whether remaining independent for now or joining another platform — will be closely watched, particularly given unconfirmed reports linking him to possible interest in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial ticket.

For now, Mustapha has reiterated his steadfast dedication to serving the people, signaling that the resignation marks a shift in platform rather than a retreat from public service.