APC Senator who lost return ticket to Kwara gov gets PDP nomination

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State is engulfed in a political turmoil as Senator Saliu Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central, has been awarded the ticket by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest in the 2027 elections. Mustapha's decision to resign from the APC came after a significant disagreement with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

The PDP's decision to nominate Mustapha was made following talks with former lawmaker Moshood Mustapha, who was initially in contention for the ticket. With the APC ticket going to Governor AbdulRazaq, Mustapha is now set to face a major political battle in Kwara Central, defending his seat against the governor.

Mustapha's resignation was a result of weeks of disputes within the APC following the party's governorship primary, where Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu was chosen as the candidate. The senator had interacted with numerous stakeholders and supporters in the lead-up to his resignation, emphasizing the importance of balance between the "people, principles, and purpose" in politics.

He acknowledged the relationships and experiences he gained from his time in the APC and vowed to maintain his principles and commitment to his constituents even as he joined the PDP.

This move by Mustapha confirms weeks of speculation that the opposition party is preparing to welcome him into the Kwara Central constituency. Reports suggested that the PDP had been considering awarding him the senatorial ticket following his expulsion from the APC, with former Senate President Bukola Saraki and other opposition figures reportedly showing interest in courting him.