Ibarapa East: Hundreds rally support for Kuso, demand APM ticket
Hundreds of residents and supporters from the 10 wards of Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State on Sunday rallied behind the chairmanship ambition of Hon. Abdul Akeem Akintola Kuso, calling on the leadership of the Allied People’s Movement and Governor Seyi Makinde to back his candidacy.
The supporters converged on Orita Baptist High School, Eruwa, where they expressed their determination to see Kuso emerge as the APM candidate for the forthcoming local government election.
The gathering, which attracted party members and supporters from different parts of the local government, was marked by chants and solidarity for the aspirant, with the supporters insisting that Kuso enjoys significant grassroots support.
They appealed to Governor Makinde and stakeholders of the Allied People’s Movement at both the state and local government levels to consider what they described as the popular demand of the people by affirming Kuso as the party’s candidate.
The supporters described Kuso as a politician who, according to them, has the courage and determination to challenge what they called the dominance of a few political interests in the local government.
They further alleged that some political leaders were opposed to Kuso’s ambition because they feared that he would not allow himself to be controlled or used to advance personal interests.
The supporters dismissed the claim that Kuso was being resisted because of his alleged stubbornness, describing him instead as a disciplined and principled politician who would not compromise his values or support actions capable of short-changing the people.
According to them, Kuso’s independent-minded approach and insistence on fairness were among the reasons they believed he was suitable to lead the local government.
They maintained that the aspirant had demonstrated sufficient understanding of the challenges facing the people and would prioritise development, accountability and the welfare of residents if elected.
Speaking at the gathering, Kuso urged his supporters to remain calm and loyal to the Allied People’s Movement, stressing that the interest of the party and the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde should remain paramount.
He appealed to his supporters not to engage in anti-party activities, saying political disagreements should be handled through consultation and dialogue.
Kuso said he remained confident in Governor Makinde’s leadership and vision, describing the governor as a selfless and visionary leader whose efforts to strengthen the party should be supported.
He also appealed to his supporters to exercise patience, assuring them that consultations with relevant stakeholders would continue in a bid to achieve his ambition through peaceful and legitimate political processes.
The aspirant thanked the supporters for their confidence and loyalty, saying their large turnout had further demonstrated the level of grassroots support for his ambition.
Kuso added that some individuals who were allegedly opposed to his candidacy were aware of his determination to change the fortunes of Ibarapa East and improve the living conditions of its residents.
He said he would remain committed to the principles of fairness, accountability and development and would not support any arrangement that could further marginalise the people.
The supporters subsequently renewed their call on the APM leadership to listen to the grassroots and give Kuso the opportunity to contest under the party’s platform, describing him as their preferred choice for the chairmanship of Ibarapa East Local Government.