Inclusion Not Seasonal, Group Tells AbdulRazaq, Seeks Fair Political Representation in Kwara

 

A socio-political group, Kwara Inclusion Advocates (KIA), has urged Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq to translate his Christmas message to Christians into concrete actions that reflect genuine inclusion in governance.

The group commended the governor for acknowledging the role of Christians in the peace and development of Kwara State but insisted that symbolic gestures must be backed by equitable access to leadership positions.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group’s coordinator, Felix Ajide, described the governor’s Christmas message as reassuring but said the festive season should also serve as a period for sincere reflection on fairness, justice, and political balance.

“We appreciate the governor’s recognition of the Christian community’s loyalty and contributions to the peace and progress of Kwara State,” Ajide said.

“However, true inclusion goes beyond seasonal goodwill. It must be demonstrated through fair access to leadership opportunities.”

Ajide stressed that Christians are not marginal participants in the state but integral contributors to its social, economic, and political life.

He noted that as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to take shape, conversations around removing longstanding structural barriers that have hindered the emergence of a Christian governor in the state should not be misconstrued as divisive.

According to him, similar inclusive arrangements practiced in other plural societies have helped to strengthen unity rather than weaken it.

Ajide added that Governor AbdulRazaq, as the leader of the ruling party in Kwara State, is strategically positioned to promote a political culture that genuinely reflects the state’s diversity.

He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to peaceful advocacy and coexistence, calling for a Kwara State where every community has a strong sense of belonging and equal stake in governance.