Saraki's PDP Gains Ground Amid APC Rift in Kwara

The political dynamics in Kwara State are evolving as the People's Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of former governor Bukola Saraki, prepares for the 2027 governorship election. The PDP is actively engaging with discontented members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly those from a faction known as The Otoge Progressives, which emerged from the G15 group.

A significant development occurred on August 20, when Saliu Mustapha, the Senator representing Kwara Central, resigned from the APC and secured the PDP senatorial ticket for his district. This decision was influenced by consultations with stakeholders and constituents.

The PDP is also fielding candidates like Hon. Saheed Popoola in Kwara South and Kolo Jiya in Kwara North, both of whom have defected from the APC. The internal discord within the APC has been brewing since June 2026, when a group of governorship aspirants raised concerns about the party's management, leading to the formation of the G-10 and later G-15.