The Kwara G15, a political bloc within the All Progressives Congress, APC in Kwara State, has formally rebranded as The Otoge Progressives, TOP, describing the move as a new phase in its campaign for inclusive leadership, internal democracy and the preservation of the ideals of the 2019 Otoge political movement.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement and town hall meeting at the Aca-Canta Arena in Ilorin, where the movement unveiled its new name, logo and identity before thousands of party members and stakeholders from the state’s 16 local government areas.
According to the group, the rebranding became necessary following its rapid expansion since its emergence in June, with more political leaders and grassroots stakeholders joining the movement.
The bloc said the transition from G15 to TOP would provide a broader platform for members committed to strengthening internal democracy, promoting inclusive politics and sustaining the principles that inspired the Otoge movement.
Ribsmedia reports that the spokesperson of the movement and former Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Yahaya Oloriegbe, said the rebranding reflected growth rather than division, stressing that the founding members remained united and committed to their shared objectives.
He said the movement had continued to attract respected political figures across the state and commended members for remaining steadfast despite what he described as political pressure and intimidation.
“We are conscious of the difficulties confronting many of our supporters. We are aware of efforts to secure their allegiance through financial inducements, promises of political appointments and other personal advantages.
We have also received disturbing accounts of threats, intimidation, blackmail, name-calling and undue pressure directed at those who refuse to abandon their convictions,” Oloriegbe said.
“We understand the burden you carry.
We appreciate the price you are paying for standing on principle, and we assure you that the leadership of this movement stands firmly beside you.”
Also addressing the gathering, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Salman Jawondo , SAN, said the movement remained committed to protecting democratic values and internal party democracy through lawful and constitutional means.
The bloc also rejected all candidates reportedly backed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for elective positions in the state, alleging that they did not reflect the ideals of the Otoge movement.
The group further claimed that the candidates were being positioned to advance what it described as the governor’s bid to retain political influence beyond his constitutionally permitted tenure.
At an earlier stakeholders’ meeting held at Notkel in Ilorin, participants approved, through a voice vote, a proposal empowering the leadership of the movement to explore alternative political options ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A committee was also constituted to examine available options and submit recommendations within one week.
The meeting further reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A motion moved by Senator Saliu Mustapha expressing a vote of confidence in the President and endorsing his re-election bid for a second term in 2027 received overwhelming support from participants.
The event was attended by several prominent APC stakeholders, including Senators Saliu Mustapha, Yahaya Oloriegbe, Sodiq Umar, Lola Ashiru, Dele Belgore SAN, Barrister Salman Jawondo, SAN, Senator Ahmed Ahmed, Senator Bisi Oyewo, former public office holders, party elders, women and youth leaders, among others.
