As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next governorship cycle in Kwara State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) faces yet another defining moment that will test not only its political maturity, but also its institutional memory. The debate over who eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate should not merely revolve around popularity contests or transient alignments. It must fundamentally interrogate questions of loyalty, sacrifice, continuity, and party stability.
In this regard, Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Gambari Seriki, popularly called Amba, deserves serious and favourable consideration by both the Kwara APC and the national leadership of the party. Politics, especially within a governing party, must retain a moral framework. No political structure survives for long when loyalty is consistently ignored and sacrifice goes unrewarded.
Strong parties are built when members who contribute immensely to difficult struggles are remembered when opportunities arise.
This is precisely where the case for Seriki becomes compelling. Since the emergence of the Otoge movement that eventually reshaped Kwara State’s political landscape in 2019, Amba has remained one of the most consistent pillars of the APC in the state. His contributions to the success of the party have been substantial, visible and largely selfless.
At a crucial period in 2019, when the APC needed cohesion and strategic mobilisation to confront the then dominant political establishment in the state, Seriki demonstrated unusual political maturity by stepping down for AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Beyond that singular sacrifice, he accepted the responsibility of serving as the Director-General of the campaign organisation that eventually delivered the historic Otoge victory.
That role was not symbolic. It demanded coordination, reconciliation, grassroots engagement and effective mobilisation across political tendencies. The outcome is now history.
Expectedly, many beneficiaries emerged from that political revolution. Yet, among the leading actors of the struggle, Seriki has remained remarkably loyal to the party and its leadership without bitterness or unnecessary agitation.
That consistency became even more pronounced in 2022 during the contest for the Senate ticket. Despite widespread sentiments among his supporters that he deserved better treatment, he refused to become a destabilising force within the APC. Rather than weaken the party, he aligned fully with its decisions and supported its candidates.
Again, in 2023, when Governor AbdulRazaq required experienced political hands to consolidate his re-election efforts, the same Seriki was entrusted with a strategic role in the campaign structure. Once more, he delivered without controversy.
It is therefore understandable that growing indications of Governor AbdulRazaq’s support for Amba’s governorship aspiration have generated positive reactions among many stakeholders within the party. Political loyalty, after all, is a currency that should not lose its value within progressive politics.
For the APC leadership at the national level, the situation in Kwara State presents an important opportunity to reinforce internal party discipline and reward long-standing commitment. Consensus arrangements, where necessary, should be guided by fairness, strategic balance and recognition of those who have consistently invested in party growth.
This is why other aspirants within the APC should carefully reflect on the broader interest of the party and consider supporting Seriki’s aspiration. Such a decision would not amount to weakness. Rather, it would demonstrate statesmanship and commitment to party cohesion.
The APC in Kwara State cannot afford avoidable divisions at a period when consolidation remains critical. The party requires a candidate capable of sustaining existing political stability while also preserving the spirit of inclusion and loyalty that strengthened the Otoge movement from inception.
Beyond politics, Seriki’s philanthropic profile and grassroots engagement have further enhanced his acceptability among ordinary Kwarans. Over the years, he has cultivated a reputation as a mobiliser, bridge-builder and committed party man whose interventions transcend political seasons.
The larger point remains straightforward: political organisations must deliberately cultivate a culture where sacrifice is appreciated and loyalty rewarded. Once party faithful begin to perceive that commitment carries no value, the foundations of discipline gradually weaken.
The APC has often projected itself as a party built on progressive ideals, institutional stability and strategic continuity. The Kwara State governorship succession process offers another opportunity to demonstrate those ideals in practical terms.
Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari has, by conduct and consistency, earned the right to be seriously considered for the party’s ticket.
As consultations continue, stakeholders within the APC must place a premium on unity, continuity and fairness. In doing so, they may well find that supporting Amba represents not merely a political choice, but a strategic and just decision for the future of the party in Kwara State.
. Rev. Ojo writes from Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
