Association cites unity, equity, and track record as basis for endorsement after screening Kwara South aspirants
ILORIN– The Aro Meta Development Association, a leading Kwara South community development body, has formally endorsed Dr. Azeez Salako Muideen Olaniyi for the office of Governor of Kwara State, declaring him the most suitable candidate to advance unity and equitable development across the state.
The endorsement was announced today, Monday, May 4, 2026, at a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat, Ilorin. The event was attended by media houses from across Kwara State and beyond.
Aro Meta Development Association, duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, derives its name from the three major ethnic blocs of Kwara South — Igbomina, Ibolo, and Ekiti. The Association said its core mandate is to champion the development of Kwara South by promoting unity and ensuring the region speaks with one voice on matters of governance.
Addressing journalists, Envangelist Sunday Ajileye, the Chairman of the Association stated that Aro Meta’s involvement in governance is driven by the need to guarantee equitable distribution of state resources and development projects throughout Kwara State.
“To achieve this, we recognize that credible and responsible candidates must represent us at all levels of governance. Consequently, we resolved to be part of the selection process of all our representatives from Kwara South,” the Chairman said.
On questions regarding other speculated aspirants from Kwara South, the Chairman disclosed that the Association had carried out an extensive screening exercise. “B.O.B is with us, but we discovered his candidacy endorsement by presidency is rumoured. We stated publicly that we would screen all aspirants from Kwara South. We went to their compounds and went the extra mile to get these results because we have done our job. Some of those aspirants will withdraw and support Dr Salako’s candidacy. Our declaration today is our result,” he said.
Responding to concerns that the agitation for a Kwara South candidate could disrupt any existing rotation arrangement, the Chairman clarified: “Politics means different blocs and communities will have their sides, but the fact is that no official rotation process is ongoing in Kwara State. If there was an official arrangement, there would be no aspirant from Kwara Central where we have the current Governor. With what’s on ground, rotation may not be visible.”
Asked about the Association’s fate if Dr Salako does not secure the ticket, the Chairman said: “Supposing our candidate is not chosen, God forbid, we should be able to work as one. That is why we are pushing forward a unifier in Dr Salako. As it stands now, Aro Meta, as a community-based Association, is more interested in being part of the process that decides our fate. We are ready to work with whoever emerges, as long as he can push for the development of all Kwarans.”
The Association further appealed to the All Progressives Congress National, State body and the Presidency to consider Dr Salako, describing him as a unifier with proven relationships across all districts, zones, and Local Government Areas of the state. “We have confirmed his strong relationship with all districts, zones and LGAs. He will unify the APC,” the Chairman added.
Aro Meta reaffirmed its commitment to community development, equity, and consensus-building, noting that its endorsement of Dr Salako followed due diligence and wide consultations across Kwara South.
Post a Comment