Kwara Political Landscape Shifts as Ajia Joins APC
Oru Leonard
The political landscape in Ilorin witnessed a notable shift on Monday as businessman and political figure, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, formally joined the All Progressives Congress, a development party leaders described as capable of reshaping grassroots mobilisation and strengthening the ruling party’s influence in the state.
Ajia, the Dan Amanan Fune Emirate of Yobe State and Nwanne Ukwu Di Na Mba of Amaba-Ukwu Item in Abia State, was received during a familiarisation visit to Mogaji Ngeri Ward where he was presented with the party’s broom symbol by the ward chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Muritala Oforo, at the Gegele ward secretariat amid cheers from party faithful and supporters.
Among those present at the reception were the Executive Chairman of Ilorin West Local Government, Hon. Shehu Abdulrahman Babatunde Ladan; Senior Special Assistant (Political), Hon. Suleiman Aremu Saikai; women leader Hajia Bukola Galadima; youth leaders Abdulwahab Abaya and other stakeholders who welcomed him into the party fold.
Stakeholders at the gathering described his entry as a significant political gain, noting that his grassroots network and national connections would broaden the party’s reach and alter local political dynamics, especially following his exit from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party.
Speaking after his registration, Ajia expressed appreciation to party leaders and supporters for the warm reception, stating that his decision followed months of consultations, prayers and consensus among his supporters and community leaders.
He explained that the move was guided by patriotism and the desire to contribute to unity and stability at both state and national levels.
Drawing from his academic research and experience in the Nigeria Police Force, which he left in 2017, Ajia said insecurity cannot be solved through force alone, emphasising that cooperation between communities and security agencies, intelligence sharing and citizen participation remain essential to preventing violence.
He also expressed confidence in the security direction of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing the leadership role of Christopher Musa while stressing that national strategies must be complemented by grassroots engagement.
Ajia assured party leaders that his entry into the party would go beyond symbolism, pledging to mobilise communities, promote civic participation and connect Kwara more closely to the centre of governance.
According to him, his involvement would mark the beginning of a stronger federal presence in the state through collaboration, development engagement and support for government programmes.
He further dismissed suggestions of personal political ambition, maintaining that his involvement in politics is driven by service and national interest.
He urged citizens to support ongoing reforms and prioritise unity, noting that policy changes often produce temporary hardship before long-term stability.
Party supporters expressed optimism that his background in security and community engagement would strengthen party structures and public trust in governance, while Ajia reaffirmed his commitment to work with government at all levels to promote peace, stability and improved living conditions for citizens.
