2027: Kwara Political Battlefield Reopens as ‘O To Ge’ and ‘Otun Ya’ Forces Prepare for Fresh Showdown
2027: Kwara Political Battlefield Reopens as ‘O To Ge’ and ‘Otun Ya’ Forces Prepare for Fresh Showdown
The political atmosphere in Kwara State is heating up ahead of the 2027 general elections as old alliances are being tested and new power blocs emerge in what many observers describe as a renewed battle for the soul of the state.
Seven years after the historic “O To Ge” movement dismantled the long-standing political dominance of the Saraki political structure, another political slogan, “Otun Ya” (meaning “It is our turn”), has gained prominence as various groups position themselves for the next phase of leadership in Kwara State.
Political stakeholders across the three senatorial districts are already mobilising support, building alliances and engaging in strategic consultations ahead of the governorship contest expected to shape the future of the North-Central state.
The “O To Ge” movement, which swept through Kwara politics in 2019, united diverse political interests under a common objective of ending the influence of the old political establishment. The movement successfully propelled the All Progressives Congress (APC) to power and produced Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
As the governor approaches the completion of his second term, attention has shifted to the succession battle and which political tendency will control the next chapter of governance in the state.
The emerging “Otun Ya” campaign is largely driven by arguments surrounding political equity, zoning and the demand for power rotation among the senatorial districts. Supporters believe that the next governorship ticket should reflect the aspirations of regions that have yet to occupy the state’s highest office in recent years.
Within the APC, several influential politicians and stakeholders have reportedly intensified consultations, while competing interests continue to shape the debate over who succeeds Governor AbdulRazaq. Political observers note that the race is no longer merely about personalities but about regional interests, party loyalty, grassroots influence and access to federal political structures.
Meanwhile, opposition parties are also repositioning themselves to take advantage of any division within the ruling party. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite its internal challenges, is seeking ways to regain political relevance in the state as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
Analysts believe the coming months will witness intense political realignments, negotiations and coalition-building as aspirants seek endorsements from traditional leaders, political stakeholders, youth groups and grassroots organisations.
The unfolding political contest is expected to test the strength of the APC’s “O To Ge” legacy and the growing influence of the “Otun Ya” campaign. Whether the state witnesses continuity of the existing political order or a fresh shift in power dynamics may ultimately depend on how effectively each camp mobilises support across Kwara’s diverse political landscape.
With party primaries, strategic endorsements and grassroots mobilisation already underway, Kwara is rapidly emerging as one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political battlegrounds ahead of the 2027 elections.
