2027: Kwarans Reject Religious Politics, Demand Competence - Poll
A new statewide opinion poll has revealed a major shift in Kwara’s political climate ahead of the 2027 governorship election, with voters placing competence, security and economic performance far above religion and identity politics in determining who succeeds Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
The report of the survey, conducted by leading research firm, Africa Polling Institute, shows that voters prefer inclusive and result-oriented leadership, amid indications that many residents are becoming less interested in divisive political narratives.
According to the poll, 93 per cent of respondents said they would support a good candidate regardless of religion, while only a small fraction insisted that faith should determine voting choices.
The findings also showed significant inter-faith political tolerance across the state, with 90 per cent of Muslim respondents expressing willingness to support a Christian governor, while 98 per cent of Christian respondents said they would vote for a Muslim candidate.
Political observers say the development may alter calculations ahead of the 2027 race, especially as conversations around succession gradually gather momentum within major political blocs in the state.
The survey, conducted between May 4 and 11, 2026, sampled 5,050 respondents across the 16 local government areas and 193 wards using Computer-Aided Telephone Interviews (CATI).
Beyond religion, the poll showed that Kwarans are more concerned about practical governance issues affecting daily life.
About 72 per cent of respondents said they want a governor capable of tackling insecurity, while 67 per cent prioritised economic growth and job creation. Another 62 per cent said proven leadership capacity and performance record would strongly influence their decision in 2027.
In ranking the state’s pressing concerns, respondents identified insecurity, electricity and unemployment as the top issues requiring urgent government attention.
Analysts believe the findings point to growing voter appetite for a leader capable of building consensus across religious and regional divides while sustaining stability and economic growth in the state.
The poll also recorded high voter enthusiasm ahead of the election, with 96 per cent of respondents expressing interest in the governorship contest, while 89 per cent confirmed possession of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The report concluded that voters across Kwara are increasingly seeking practical leadership solutions rather than emotional or identity-driven politics, signalling what observers describe as a possible transition toward a more issue-based electoral environment ahead of 2027.
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