Ilorin, Kwara State — A significant political reunion took place today as Alhaji Adamu Abdukadir Manko, accompanied by influential stakeholders including Hon. Suleiman Ahman, Engr. Makun Kpotun Puta, Comr. Kolo Majin Jerry, Alhaji Ahmed Shehu, Alhaji Abdullahi Muazu, Comr. Joseph T. Mazi, Alhaji Ndeji Patigi, Alhaji Attairu Mohammed, Alhaji Attairu Abdulkadir, Alhaji Saidu Abdulkadir, and Alhaji Aliyu Manzuma officially paid a visit to the state secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State.
The delegation, warmly received at the party secretariat, brought with them heartfelt greetings and an earnest call for the preservation and strengthening of unity within the party. In an atmosphere charged with optimism, Hon. Manko praised the developmental strides made under the leadership of His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Executive Governor of Kwara State. He emphasized the importance of amplifying awareness and appreciation of the governor’s numerous achievements to foster wider public support.
Turning attention to party leadership, Manko singled out Prince Sunday Fagbemi, the APC State Chairman, lauding his wisdom, humility, and approachability. He recounted his past encounters with Prince Fagbemi during his time in the opposition party, describing those moments as periods of personal disconnection. “My political journey in the opposition was like traveling away from home. But today, I am reaffirming that I am truly home,” Manko declared, underscoring his resolve to contribute meaningfully to the APC’s growth and success.
He expressed strong confidence in the party’s capacity, asserting that since his return earlier this year, he has successfully encouraged numerous communities and individuals to realign with the APC. Furthermore, he appealed to all political stakeholders in the state to cast aside partisan sentiments and unite in support of the government’s efforts to establish secure, peaceful communities across Kwara. Drawing from recent visits to Edu and Patigi local governments, he highlighted encouraging signs that peace is progressively returning to areas formerly plagued by insecurity.
At the heart of Manko’s political engagement is a deep-rooted desire to give back to his people and effect tangible improvements in their quality of life. He assured party leaders and members that he and his team stand fully committed to working at every level of the APC, pledging unyielding support and collaboration.
Responding warmly to the delegation, Prince Sunday Fagbemi welcomed Hon. Manko and his associates back into the fold. He acknowledged the enduring legacy of Manko’s family within the APC, praising the impactful contributions of both his father and brother to the party’s development. “Your return is highly symbolic and inspiring,” Fagbemi remarked. “Whenever I saw you before, I felt you were on the wrong path, so hearing you are now back fills my heart with joy.”
The state chairman advised Manko to immerse himself deeply in party activities at the ward level, encouraging visible and active participation that would showcase his influence within local government structures. He underscored the irreplaceable value of personal connection in Nigerian politics, cautioning that no political ambition can flourish without genuine grassroots support. Fagbemi reminded Manko that balancing commitments between Lagos and Kwara State is essential, as political relevance is often maintained through physical presence.
Highlighting the broader challenges facing the state, Fagbemi spoke candidly about the ongoing issues of insecurity, which he noted are neither unique to Kwara nor Nigeria. He emphasized the indispensable role of community collaboration, urging citizens not to rely solely on government; rather, all must contribute to intelligence gathering and public vigilance to help identify and neutralize security threats.
In closing, Fagbemi called for unity, cooperation, and a collective push towards sustainable development and state-wide peace. He prayed for divine guidance and protection for all party members as they continue to work together for the prosperity of Kwara State.
The return of Hon. Manko and his team to the APC marks a rejuvenated phase of political solidarity and renewed commitment to building a secure and prosperous Kwara for all its citizens.