SALIU MUSTAPHA: Why He Appears Unstoppable in Kwara Central

An African proverb says: “The river that has crossed many villages does not lose its way to the sea.”

Saliu Mustapha is not waiting for his political time to come. As the sitting senator representing Kwara Central, his time has already come—and his performance is strengthening his path towards another victory.

He is entering the contest with the advantages of incumbency, an established grassroots structure and a record of interventions touching farmers, students, traders, artisans, women and young people across the senatorial district.

Mustapha is not introducing himself to the electorate. His name, projects and empowerment initiatives have already reached communities where political promises are usually forgotten after elections.

As another African proverb reminds us: “The footprints of the elephant cannot be hidden in the forest.”

From agricultural support and scholarships to business equipment, transportation facilities and community development projects, Mustapha has created visible footprints across Kwara Central. His politics has moved beyond speeches to practical interventions that people can identify and discuss.

His strength also lies in his ability to attract support across political divides. While his disagreement with the Kwara APC leadership is clear, it must never be mistaken for opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Mustapha has repeatedly expressed support for the President and acknowledged the achievements of the Tinubu administration at different public forums. With his considerable grassroots appeal, he could become a major crowd-puller for Tinubu in Kwara ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

No politician is literally unbeatable, and every election must ultimately be decided by the people. But Mustapha enters the Kwara Central contest with the record of a sitting senator, the reach of a grassroots organiser and the momentum of a candidate whose support extends beyond one political structure.

As our elders say: “You do not change a winning drummer while the people are still dancing.”

Saliu Mustapha has already found his rhythm with the people of Kwara Central.

He is not waiting for his time.

He is defending a mandate—and right now, he appears unstoppable.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Principal and CEO of Bush Radio Academy