A surprise visit by Emir of Ilorin Emirate, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari to a popular banker, Lukman Olayiwola-Mustapha, in Abuja has continued to generate rumours of political endorsements by the Emir to the host, towards 2019 gubernatorial elections in Kwara State.
PRNigeria learnt that Mr Mustapha, a proprietor of a Radio Station in Kwara, is said to be pressured to contest for the 2019 governorship race by notable citizens of the state especially, professionals, technocrats and youths.
However, PRNigeria also learnt that the royal visit of the Emir to the banker had nothing to do with politics of 2019.
Speaking during the visit, the royal father said he was proud to identify with his subjects who are impacting positively to the society in their various professional careers.
He urged the banker and members of his professional groups in the Coremate to remain good ambassadors of Ilorin Emirate.
Responding, Mr Mustapha expressed his joy to receive the Emir in his residence.
He said: “My joy knows no bound. I welcome your Royal Highness to this your house. As the custodian of our culture and heritage, our houses are yours as you continue to identify with us as your children. I pray that Almighty Allah will continue to preserve you for us.
A source close to the Emir’s Palace confirmed the visit to PRNigeria noting that, whenever the Emir travelled outside the state it was customary that he paid formal and informal visits to his people who are contributing positively in their various field of endeavours.
The source said: “The Emir is not a politician, but a Royal Father who supports to his entire subject in different parties, different fields and professions without bias and sentiment. He does such visits to encourage them to do more.”
DAILY NIGERIAN reports that Kwara is the home-state of Senate President Bukola Saraki and where the current governor Abdulfatai Ahmed will complete the second tenure in 2019.
There have been calculations on who the caps fit by the political juggernauts and traditional institutions to occupy Kwara government house to influence electoral victory.
