The Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday conducted its ward congress across all 193 wards in the state, with party officials describing the exercise as peaceful and orderly.
Reports from Ilorin and several local government areas indicated that leaders emerged through affirmation, as the party prepares for future electoral activities.
The Facts
- APC held ward congress in all 193 wards in Kwara State.
- Exercise reportedly peaceful across Ilorin, Asa, Ekiti, and Baruten.
- Leaders emerged through affirmation.
- Party officials said candidates were screened before participation.
- Reports from Southern and Northern Senatorial Districts indicated smooth conduct.
What Happened
The Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) conducted its ward congress across the 193 wards of the state, with party executives emerging through affirmation.
The exercise took place in Ilorin, the state capital, and extended to other local government areas including Asa, Ekiti, and Baruten. Observers described the atmosphere in several centres as calm and celebratory.
Speaking at the party’s secretariat in Ilorin, the APC chairman in the state, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, stated that the congress was conducted in line with party constitutional requirements.
According to him, the decision to adopt affirmation was intended to reduce rancour and ensure unity within the party structure.
“This is the ward congress of the party which takes place in all 193 wards in the state. So far so good, we have not heard any adverse reports. The idea behind affirmation is to make the exercise less rancorous,” he said.
He added that the process represents progress and togetherness within the party.
Where and Who Is Affected
The congress covered all 193 wards across Kwara State, affecting party members at the grassroots level.
Local government areas mentioned include:
- Ilorin West
- Asa
- Ekiti
- Baruten
The chairman of APC in Ilorin West Local Government, Hon. Suleiman Tejidini, said reports from the 12 wards in the council showed the exercise proceeded smoothly.
He noted that party stakeholders, including elders, women, and youths, participated in the process.
Screening and Conduct of the Exercise
The chairman of the congress committee and deputy chairman of APC in the state, Alhaji Abdullahi Samari, said participants had been screened prior to the congress.
According to him, only accredited and screened party members were eligible to be affirmed as ward executives.
The secretary of the screening committee, Oche Muhammed, also confirmed that aspirants were screened ahead of the exercise and that early reports indicated peaceful conduct in various ward centres.
Results from some wards had been received at the time of reporting, while others were still being awaited.
Background and Political Context
Ward congresses are part of the internal party processes used to elect or affirm executives at the grassroots level. These structures often play key roles in mobilization, coordination, and party activities ahead of general elections.
Prince Fagbemi noted that the peaceful conduct of the exercise signals unity within the party and could strengthen its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Internal party cohesion is often considered crucial in determining preparedness for broader electoral contests.
Official Response
Party officials who addressed reporters described the exercise as peaceful and free of disputes at the time of reporting.
No official statement indicating irregularities had been issued as of press time.
Community Reaction
Reactions are still emerging.
What Happens Next
With ward executives now affirmed, the party is expected to proceed with subsequent internal processes as required by its constitution.
Observers note that ward structures form the foundation of party organization at the grassroots level, making this stage important for future political mobilization within the state.
Conclusion
The Kwara APC ward congress held across the 193 wards of the state concluded without reported incidents, according to party officials.
With leaders emerging through affirmation and screening processes confirmed by committee members, the exercise marks a key internal step for the party’s grassroots organization in Kwara State.
Sources: Statements by Prince Sunday Fagbemi, Alhaji Abdullahi Samari, Oche Muhammed, and Hon. Suleiman Tejidini during the ward congress.
