The Kwara for Kwarans Initiative has applauded the Aro Meta Development Association for what it described as a courageous and forward-thinking effort to identify the most credible candidate ahead of the 2027 Kwara State governorship election.
In a statement released on Monday in Ilorin, the group commended Aro Meta for carrying out extensive consultations and assessments of aspirants from Kwara South before endorsing Dr. Muyideen Salako for governor. The association’s prediction that some aspirants would eventually rally behind Salako appeared validated following Senator Lola Ashiru’s decision to withdraw from the governorship race and seek re-election to the Senate.
Describing the move as a model of responsible civic engagement, the Kwara for Kwarans Initiative said Aro Meta had demonstrated leadership by prioritizing competence, unity, and the future of the state above personal or sectional interests.
“Aro Meta has shown uncommon courage by taking responsibility for identifying the most credible candidate among the aspirants. This is patriotism and true leadership,” the statement noted.
The group stressed that community-based associations should not remain passive observers in the political process, especially when leadership choices directly affect development and governance. It argued that grassroots organizations often understand the needs of the people better than political actors alone.
According to the Initiative, the 2027 election offers Kwarans an opportunity to reposition the state for greater growth and inclusiveness. It therefore urged other socio-cultural and development groups across the state to emulate Aro Meta by engaging constructively in the leadership selection process.
The organization also advised stakeholders to focus more on competence, fairness, and capacity rather than ethnic or zoning sentiments lacking legal backing or broad consensus.
“What truly matters is leadership that can unite the state, ensure fair distribution of resources, and work for every Kwaran irrespective of background,” the statement added.
Aro Meta Development Association, a registered body representing the Igbomina, Ibolo, and Ekiti ethnic blocs in Kwara South, had earlier explained that its endorsement followed a thorough screening process involving consultations and background checks on aspirants.
The association said Dr. Salako emerged as the preferred choice because of his broad acceptability, track record, and relationships across the state’s three senatorial districts.
Kwara for Kwarans Initiative further appealed to the APC national leadership and the Presidency to pay closer attention to candidates with strong grassroots support, insisting that such individuals are more likely to govern effectively and win public trust.
The group maintained that the involvement of non-partisan associations in leadership recruitment could help strengthen democracy and improve governance outcomes in Kwara State ahead of the 2027 elections.
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