2027: Kale Kawu, best choice for Kwarans – Eru l’agaka

Alhaji Yusuf Amuda Ajia, a distinguished member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Kwara State chapter and a devoted supporter of the Saraki political dynasty, shares insights in this interview. Ajia, fondly referred to as Eru l’agaka, unveils the causes behind the PDP candidate’s defeat in the last general election and explores the prospects for the PDP’s candidate, Engineer Suleiman Bolakale Kawu (Dan’Iya Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate), in securing the party’s victory in the 2027 gubernatorial elections. Excerpts:

May we have the pleasure of meeting you Sir?

I have been involved in politics for over 20 years, working first with Baba Saraki and now with our leader, Dr. Bukola Saraki. I have never been affiliated with any party other than the Saraki party dynasty. My brother, Suleiman Bolakale Kawu, who won the PDP primary election, has always been a devoted member of the Saraki political family. I’m home boy who knows and understands the Kwara political system very well.

Observing the PDP in Kwara, it appears it lacks the strength to challenge the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) effectively.

In Kwara State, there are primarily two dominant political parties that will compete in the election. The PDP has been fulfilling its role as the opposition party commendably. As we approach the election, and with God’s grace, by 2027, the PDP will ascend to power. Kwara is distinct from other states; here, we prioritize the people over party affiliations. We are following in the footsteps of Baba Saraki, our esteemed mentor. Danya, initially, had no intention of contesting, but the people, recognizing his humanitarian efforts, vision, and passion for the advancement of Kwara, urged him to run. PDP is ready now for the poll with my brother contesting.

People voted massively for APC during the election that produced the sitting governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and voted PDP out. What’s your take?

What people wanted at that time was change. They felt Saraki was the harbinger of their problems. Now that they’ve tasted another government, they see the difference. Many people in the state now confess that Saraki, whom they once described as evil, is better. Imagine, during the PDP reign in Kwara State, there was nothing like insecurity. We were well protected then. It had never happened in Kwara. I was born and brought up here, so I know better. Of course, there are cases of insecurity in other states, but not in Kwara at that time. Now, to travel to some local governments is a risk. Even people in rural areas have migrated away because the fear of attack is so strong. Kwara is a state of harmony, not a state of insecurity.

How do you see the primary election that produced your brother as the PDP flag bearer?

The election was credible. I’ve always said he’s popular and has great passion for the welfare of the people. Every eligible member of the party has the right to contest. The people of the state have chosen the best person to give them good representation.

How will you react to the notion in some quarters that Saraki advised Kale to step down from the race?

There was nothing like that. It never happened. People were just spreading baseless rumors to mislead the public. Saraki is our party leader, and he allows everyone to contest for the position they want. Not everyone will like you. In this case, we elected Dan Iya Ngeri through a democratic process.

You once said, everyone everyone supported Atunwa then for the Governorship seat he lost. But…

Everyone supported Atunwa, but the reason the party lost was that people desired change. It was never an issue with our party’s candidate. Atunwa was a good, credible candidate whom people sincerely loved and cherished at that time. However, we all understand that the only constant in nature is change, just as the PDP will shift the balance of power in this governorship election now.

There was a rumor that Senator Saliu Mustapha, BOB, and Saraki held a secret meeting to discuss collaboration. Is this the true situation?

There was no such meeting. However, no one can prevent individuals from meeting or conversing. Even if they did meet, were they discussing party matters or the election? We are all united, despite party differences. Party affairs and family connections are intertwined.

What is your opinion on the purported report that Saraki is involved with the president?

It’s false. Can you provide any photograph of them together? People are merely fabricating various narratives about him to divert public attention. However, it’s clear: Saraki is not running for any position. He stated it unequivocally on national television.

Your leader has been charged to court for culpable homicide regarding the Offa bank robbery. What’s your comment?

Everyone knows the court case is just a gimmick for distraction. Saraki will never do what he was accused of. He’s a very easygoing person. And why is the case coming up now, when the election is fast approaching? That suggests it has political undertones meant to bring him down. But let’s go to court, we have a judiciary to do what is right. It’s political propaganda.

What will your party do differently if eventually regain power?

We’ll listen to everyone to know where the shoe pinches them.

The present government lacks that. Engineer Sulyman Bolakale Kawu will correct that, he had a great impact.

How confident are you that your party will win?

Well, it’s the people who vote, not us politicians. But I pray for my brother’s emergence.