TOP Unveils New Identity, Backs Tinubu’s Second-Term Bid, Rejects Alleged Candidate Imposition in Kwara:
The political landscape in Kwara State witnessed a significant development on Thursday as the Kwara G15, a leading political bloc within the All Progressives Congress (APC), officially rebranded itself as The Otoge Progressives (TOP), unveiling a new name, logo, and identity in what its leaders described as a renewed commitment to internal democracy, inclusive leadership, and the preservation of the ideals that shaped the 2019 Otoge political movement.
The announcement was made during a Stakeholders’ Engagement and Town Hall Meeting held at the Arca-Santa Arena, Ilorin, where thousands of party faithful, political stakeholders, former public office holders, women leaders, youth groups, and supporters from the sixteen local government areas of Kwara State gathered to witness the unveiling.
According to the leadership of the movement, the transition from G15 to The Otoge Progressives (TOP) reflects the steady expansion of the political bloc since its emergence in June, with more APC leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots supporters identifying with its vision of strengthening internal democracy and promoting inclusive politics.
The movement explained that the new identity provides a broader platform capable of accommodating its growing membership while sustaining the principles upon which the original Otoge movement was founded.
Rebranding Reflects Growth, Not Division
Speaking at the event, the spokesperson of the movement and former Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, said the rebranding symbolises growth rather than division within the party.
He noted that the founding members remain united in purpose and committed to pursuing collective interests rather than individual political ambitions.
Senator Oloriegbe commended members and supporters for remaining steadfast despite what he described as sustained political pressure, intimidation, and inducements allegedly targeted at weakening the movement.
According to him, the leadership remains fully aware of reports involving financial inducements, promises of appointments, blackmail, threats, and other forms of pressure allegedly directed at members who refused to abandon the movement.
He assured supporters that the leadership appreciates their sacrifices and would continue to stand firmly with them in pursuit of democratic ideals.
Commitment to Democratic Principles
Also addressing the gathering, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Salman Jawondo (SAN), stated that protecting democratic values and strengthening internal party democracy remain collective responsibilities.
He reaffirmed that the movement would continue to pursue its objectives strictly through lawful, constitutional, and democratic means.
Stakeholders Reject Alleged Candidate Imposition
A major highlight of the meeting was the movement’s unanimous rejection of candidates allegedly produced by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for elective positions across the state.
The bloc argued that the alleged imposition contradicts the principles of the Otoge revolution, which, according to its members, was founded on consultation, fairness, and popular participation.
The stakeholders further alleged that the candidates represent an attempt to sustain political influence beyond the Governor’s constitutionally permitted tenure.
Alternative Political Options Approved
Earlier at a separate stakeholders’ meeting held in Notkel, Ilorin, participants overwhelmingly approved a proposal empowering the leadership of The Otoge Progressives (TOP) to explore alternative political options ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
The decision followed an open voice vote coordinated by Barrister Salman Jawondo (SAN).
Following the approval, a committee was constituted to examine available political options and submit recommendations to the leadership within one week.
Vote of Confidence for President Tinubu
The gathering also reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, endorsing his re-election bid for a second term in 2027.
The motion, moved by the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Saliu Mustapha, received overwhelming support from stakeholders, who passed a vote of confidence in the President’s leadership.
Prominent Leaders Attend Meeting
The event attracted several prominent political leaders and stakeholders, including:
- Senator Saliu Mustapha
- Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe
- Senator Sodiq Umar
- Senator Lola Ashiru
- Mr. Dele Belgore (SAN)
- Ambassador Yahaya Seriki-Gambari (represented)
- Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (represented)
- Hon. Bio Umar
- Alhaji Tajudeen AbdulKadir Audu
- Senator Ajadi Makanjuola
- Senator Ahmed Ahmed
- Senator Bisi Oyewo
- Hon. Adamu Manko
- Hon. Ahmed Abubakar Ndakene
- Captain Ahmad Mahmud
- Hon. James Kolo
- Hon. Yinka Aluko
- Hon. Tijani
- Hon. Razak Owolabi
- Hon. Gideon
- Hon. Odetundun
- Hon. Jimoh Abdulrahman Alapata
Others present included Chief James Bamisaiye Ayenioye (JP), Alhaji Baba Olosasa, Alhaji Baba Adefalu, Dr. Yakub Yahaya Oloriegbe, Lt. Col. Abubakar Edun (Rtd.), Mallam Adebayo Abdullateef Oloyin, immediate Past Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Alhaja Aishat Bolanle Ismail (Iya-Lamule), Senior Special Assistant on Women Mobilisation to the Governor, alongside party elders, former public office holders, women leaders, youth leaders, and APC stakeholders from across the state.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by members of The Otoge Progressives (TOP) to continue advocating internal democracy, broader political participation, and constitutional engagement as preparations gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
