Politics in Kwara North is at a crossroads, with emerging power struggles and conflicting narratives about leadership and governance. The recent special prayer session organized by MSM TITAN in Lafiagi for Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin, has reignited debates on political representation, governance, and the region’s future. While the event was meant to be a spiritual exercise, it has exposed the deep political undercurrents shaping the discourse in Kwara North.
At the centre of the controversy is the role of the Chief Imam of Lafiagi, whose presence (or absence) at the event has become a talking point for those looking to frame religious leadership within political lines. This unnecessary politicization of faith reflects the deeper issues at play—a struggle for influence, power, and positioning for the 2027 elections.
Leadership, Performance, and Political Gamesmanship
One of the biggest takeaways from this event is the growing acceptance of Senator Saliu Mustapha across Kwara State, including in Kwara North. His approach to leadership—humility, philanthropy, and a commitment to development—has endeared him to many. Unlike some leaders who merely seek political positions without a clear impact, Mustapha has demonstrated practical engagement with grassroots communities, which has gained him significant goodwill.
But while some leaders are gaining political traction through performance, others seem more interested in discrediting religious figures and suppressing dissenting voices. The controversy surrounding the Chief Imam of Lafiagi’s involvement in the prayer session is a classic example of how politicians attempt to manipulate religious institutions for their personal ambitions. Religious leaders should be neutral and accessible to all, not tools for political propaganda.
Beyond this, the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, TESCOM Chairman and other political figures in Kwara North should reflect on their own track records rather than focusing on attacking perceived rivals. Governance should not be about positioning for higher office—it should be about service, development, and impact. The ongoing challenges in electricity supply and waterworks in Kwara North are real concerns, yet they are being overshadowed by unnecessary political battles.
The Kwara North Agenda: Unity or Division?
For years, there has been a push for a governor from Kwara North, with the argument that the region deserves a chance to lead. However, history has shown that regional representation alone does not guarantee progress. The real question should not be about where the next governor comes from but about who has the vision, competence, and commitment to truly develop the state.
The division within Kwara North itself poses a significant challenge to this agenda. If leaders in the region cannot unite behind a common goal and instead focus on attacking each other, how can they convince the rest of the state that they are ready to lead? Instead of fostering unity, some politicians are using ethnic and religious sentiments to push their personal ambitions, a dangerous trend that could weaken Kwara North’s collective bargaining power.
What Comes Next?
The political landscape in Kwara is evolving, and Kwara North must make a critical choice: Will it focus on real governance issues, or will it allow internal conflicts to derail its aspirations?
Senator Saliu Mustapha’s growing influence in the region signals a shift in political dynamics. His ability to connect across different regions—without engaging in divisive tactics—is something other leaders should emulate. Instead of fighting over who attended a prayer session, political actors should focus on delivering tangible development, engaging with communities, and building a credible agenda for the future.
The true battle is not about the Chief Imam, MSM TITAN, or the Speaker—it is about the people. And until leaders put the people first, the Kwara North agenda will remain a slogan rather than a reality.
MSM TITAN
The Voice of Humanity
