2027: Gambari’s son declares Kwara governorship ambition

By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

Mallam Omar Bolaji Gambari, the first son of Nigeria’s veteran diplomat and former Chief of Staff to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Monday, Gambari said the political opposition in the state remains active, contrary to claims by supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that opposition parties are no longer relevant.

According to him, the PDP remains vibrant in Kwara and is prepared to challenge the ruling party.

“The PDP is alive, thriving and quite vibrant in Kwara State. I can’t speak for other places, but we are doing well in Kwara. We are up to the task and holding the present government accountable. If a level playing ground is provided, 2027 will clearly show which party is alive or dead,” he said.

Gambari, who contested the House of Representatives seat for Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency under the PDP in 2019, urged citizens to hold political leaders accountable, noting that constant scrutiny would compel leaders to deliver on their promises.

He said his administration, if elected, would prioritise security, agriculture, healthcare and education.

The governorship aspirant also argued that democracy in Nigeria has continued to deepen despite criticisms, citing increased youth participation, reduced electoral violence and greater public awareness of the political process.

Describing his agenda as the “OBG Commitment,” Gambari said it is centred on People, Protection, Prosperity and Politics.

“Our agenda focuses on people’s welfare, quality education, healthcare, security, climate change and poverty eradication,” he said.

He added that his vision also emphasises collective prosperity and inclusive politics.

Gambari said addressing security challenges in the state would involve both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, while economic growth would be driven through agricultural industrialisation.

“We will acquire land and develop industrial-scale irrigation for all-season farming. Government will provide the enabling environment for processing and off-taking of farm produce, thereby creating prosperity,” he said.

He also proposed the establishment of Kwara North and Kwara South Development Commissions to address what he described as uneven development across the state, with the commissions to be managed by indigenes of the respective areas.

Gambari praised former Senate President Bukola Saraki for development projects executed during his tenure, stating that the former governor’s record speaks for itself.

“Critics may focus on negative narratives about Saraki, but the records speak for him. He has more advantages than baggage,” he said.

During a question-and-answer session with journalists, Gambari dismissed suggestions that his political ambition is driven by the influence of his father.

“I am standing as a man on my own two feet,” he said.

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