2027: Kwara ADC guber candidate vows to end civil service tag

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Kwara State, Rt. Hon. Zakari Mohammed, has pledged to reduce the state’s dependence on civil service employment through agricultural processing, technical education, and job creation if elected in 2027.

Mohammed made the pledge while speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Thursday, saying Kwara was due for positive change.

The former member of the House of Representatives said his three-point agenda for the state would prioritize intelligence-led security, alongside measures to promote economic growth and development.

He said a safe environment was essential for residents, farmers, and businesses to thrive, adding that insecurity remained a major obstacle to economic progress.

Mohammed, who represented Baruten/Kaiama Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019, stressed the need for community intelligence gathering, modern technology, and better support for security agencies.

The ADC candidate, who hails from the agrarian Baruten area of Kwara North, described agriculture as a critical sector requiring urgent government attention. He said farmers needed adequate security and government support to increase food production.

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Mohammed, a former spokesperson of the seventh National Assembly, also claimed that he was the only one among the leading governorship candidates in Kwara without a political godfather, adding that he relied on God and the electorate to realise his ambition.

“Wining election is not by big names. I remain the only candidate without godfather among the leading governorship candidates in Kwara state. Others should come out and debate Kwara issues. Stakeholders should invite us all and interrogate us”, he said.

On the economy, the candidate expressed concern over the rising cost of living and the difficulties households face in meeting their basic needs.

He criticised the economic policies of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led governments, particularly their emphasis on taxation amid worsening economic hardship.

Mohammed said government policies should reduce the burden on citizens, support productive activities and make essential commodities more affordable.

He cited agricultural subsidies adopted by some countries as measures that could lower production costs and improve access to food.

The governorship hopeful also called for improvements to the education system to equip young people with practical and technical skills. He said education should create opportunities for personal advancement while contributing to the state’s development.

He maintained that governance should be based on clear programmes, accountability and measurable commitments rather than political sentiments or personalities.

Mohammed urged voters to examine the policy proposals of governorship candidates ahead of the 2027 election, saying political parties and their candidates should be assessed on their ability to address the challenges facing residents.

He said the ADC was committed to implementing its manifesto and that candidates elected on the party’s platform would be expected to work within its policy framework.

The candidate also pledged that his administration would not abandon projects, saying viable initiatives that directly affect residents’ welfare would be completed.