After claimed rigorous extensive consultations and assessment of aspirants across Kwara South, Aro Meta Development Association, a socio-cultural group representing the three blocs of Kwara South has agreed on the candidature of Dr. Muyideen Olaniyi Salako as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race.

It also noted that the district must produce the next governor in the interest of equity and balance, adding that the group would play active role in shaping governance outcomes in the state.

Aro Meta announced on Monday at the Kwara State Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Press centre that the decision followed extensive consultations and assessment of aspirants across Kwara South.

Addressing journalists, the Chairman of the association, Evangelist Sunday Ajileye, said that the association was established to promote collective progress, economic development and improved welfare for communities in the region through advocacy and civic engagement.

According to him, “we exist to champion the interest and development of Kwara South by promoting unity and speaking with one voice, while also advocating infrastructure, youth development and improved living conditions for our people.”

On the political direction ahead of 2027, Ajileye hinted that the group remains firm in ensuring that the next governor should emerge from Kwara South, despite agitation from other zones.

“With due respect to our brothers in Kwara North, we have been unequivocal that the next Governor should come from Kwara South. Kwara Central is already enjoying eight years of uninterrupted rule, and it will be unfair for the same zone to retain power again,” he said.

He added that Kwara South, with seven local governments and significant voting strength, has the political leverage to determine the outcome of the election if the zone remains united.

The group said Salako stands out among other aspirants “due to his leadership credentials, grassroots appeal and ability to unite the diverse interests within the region,” Aro Meta said.

It noted that Salako’s experience as Global President of Offa Descendants Union (ODU) has demonstrated his administrative competence and capacity to mobilise resources for development.

“Dr. Salako has shown unifying leadership across the Igbomina, Ekiti and Ibolo blocs. His acceptance cuts across Kwara South and even extends to Kwara Central, giving him a strong electoral advantage,” he said.

He further described the aspirant as a bridge-builder with a calm disposition and a vision for inclusive development, adding that his agenda aligns with the group’s priorities in agriculture, infrastructure and youth empowerment.

The association also addressed internal zoning arrangements within Kwara South, supporting the bid of the Igbomina bloc for a senatorial slot and endorsing the allocation of House of Representatives positions to Ifelodun and Ekiti communities.

Ajileye emphasised that zoning the governorship to the Ibolo bloc, where Salako hails from, is necessary to ensure fairness and stability among the three groups.

While acknowledging the competence of other aspirants, the group urged them to close ranks and support Salako for the overall interest of the region.

“Our decision is not to undermine others, but to appeal to all aspirants to work together. Kwara South cannot afford division if we truly want to produce the next governor,” he said.

The association also called on political stakeholders and residents of the state to rally behind the candidacy, insisting that unity would be key to achieving the long-standing ambition of the district.

The group, however, declared support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending his administration for its bold economic reforms and inclusive governance.

“The 2027 elections will be decisive. In unity lies our strength; in disunity, we risk losing the opportunity to lead Kwara State,” he said.