APC Chieftain Jimoh Raises Alarm Over Disunity, ‘Pull-Down Syndrome’ in Ilorin Emirate

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Lasisi Jimoh, has raised concerns over persistent disunity among indigenes of the Ilorin Emirate, warning that internal divisions are holding back the community’s development.

Jimoh said the alleged “pull-down syndrome” among members of the emirate had created setbacks and prevented the community from reaching its full potential. He made the remarks while serving as chairman of the 40th anniversary celebration of the League of Associates in Ilorin.

He traced the roots of the division to the First Republic, when Yahaya Oriokoh, the first Federal Minister from the community, reportedly fell out with the then Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello. Jimoh attributed the disagreement partly to political intrigues among indigenes of the emirate.

According to him, similar divisions continued during the Second Republic, involving prominent figures including Dr Abubakar Olusola Saraki, former Defence Minister Akanbi Oniyangi and former Kwara State Governor Mohammed Lawal. He said the pattern had persisted into the present day, with the community paying the price.

Jimoh urged people across the emirate to embrace unity and become “their brothers’ keepers” in order to promote peace and development. He also praised the League of Associates for maintaining its unity since its establishment in 1986, describing its 40-year journey as an example for the wider community.

Speaking at the event, Professor Ibrahim Adeola Katibi of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) advised members not to fear ageing but to take their health seriously. He recommended regular exercise, monitoring of blood pressure and blood sugar levels, adequate sleep, routine medical check-ups and greater consumption of fish instead of beef.

Katibi stressed the importance of early detection, saying health conditions are more manageable when symptoms are identified and addressed promptly.

In his welcome address, the Chancellor of the League of Associates, Yahaya Oloriegbe, said the organisation was established four decades ago to promote brotherhood, unity, mutual support and service to the community. He said its founding members wanted to stand by one another in both difficult and joyful times while contributing to the development of society.