+Why He is Contesting for State House of Assembly Seat
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Kwara State, one name beginning to resonate across Ilorin South is Kareem Lekan Akanbi—a grassroots politician with a clear message: representation must be practical, visible, and people-driven.
For Akanbi, this ambition is not a sudden political leap but the continuation of a journey that has taken him across party lines, community engagement, and youth mobilization.
From SDP Spokesman to APC Stakeholder
Akanbi’s political story reflects a blend of ideology and strategy. He once served as the State Assistant Publicity Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he championed the need for political alternatives and competitive democracy. However, his eventual move to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has drawn both attention and criticism.
Addressing the “opportunism” label often associated with such political transitions, Akanbi is unapologetic.
According to him, his move was not about abandoning principles but about positioning Ilorin South for greater developmental opportunities.
“Opportunism is when you change values. I haven’t. It’s the same fight, but now with a better vehicle,” he insists.
He argues that alignment with the ruling party in the state enhances the chances of attracting meaningful projects, noting that governance is not only about advocacy but also about access and influence.
Grassroots Leadership Without Government Funds
Before aspiring for higher office, Akanbi built his reputation at the ward level as APC Youth Leader in Akanbi Ward III. His track record, notably achieved without direct government funding, forms a central part of his campaign narrative.
Among his initiatives are:
A three-month computer training programme that empowered 50 youths
Monthly environmental sanitation and drainage clearing that helped reduce flooding in Gaa-Akanbi
A voter registration drive that reportedly added over 3,000 new PVC holders
Free holiday coaching classes for secondary school students
These, he says, demonstrate his belief in “leadership without budget”—mobilizing community support and local networks to solve immediate problems.
A Legislative Agenda Focused on Everyday Needs
Akanbi’s ambition for the Kwara State House of Assembly is backed by a clearly outlined policy direction centered on education, youth empowerment, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He proposes to sponsor a Kwara School Rehabilitation Fund Bill to address the issue of dilapidated classrooms, while committing a significant portion of constituency project funds to upgrading school facilities.
On youth unemployment, he plans to introduce an Apprentice Stipend Law, which would provide monthly financial support to young people undergoing vocational training in registered businesses.
Healthcare is another priority. Akanbi pledges to push for timely release of funds to primary healthcare centers and establish ward-level monitoring systems to ensure drug availability.
He also outlines plans for: Annual rural road construction projects, Installation of solar streetlights in high-risk areas, Strengthening community policing structures and Standing Out in a Crowded Field.
In a political environment often defined by established figures and entrenched structures, Akanbi positions himself as a bridge between the grassroots and party leadership. He highlights his experience across multiple levels of politics—from state-level party administration in SDP to ward-level leadership in APC—as evidence of his versatility.
More importantly, he promises a level of transparency that many voters rarely experience. His proposed “Ilorin South Contract” document will outline specific deliverables and timelines, while his “Bill Tracker” initiative will allow constituents to review and contribute to proposed legislation before it is formally presented.
A New Model of Representation
Akanbi’s campaign also emphasizes accessibility and accountability. He proposes: Regular constituency office operations, Quarterly “Ward Parliament” meetings rotating across all wards, and Monthly live engagement sessions via radio and social media. In addition, he plans to publish his voting record and establish independent ward monitoring teams to oversee constituency projects.
Balancing Loyalty and Independence
While affirming his commitment to APC ideals, Akanbi acknowledges the influence of political structures and elders in Kwara politics. However, he maintains that his ultimate allegiance will be to the people of Ilorin South.
His approach, he says, is simple: data-driven decisions, dialogue with stakeholders, and final accountability to constituents.
The Legacy He Envisions
Looking ahead, Akanbi is focused on measurable impact rather than political rhetoric. By the end of a potential tenure in 2031, he hopes to achieve:
Improved school infrastructure with no pupil learning on bare floors, Thousands of youths trained or empowered through structured programmes
and Institutionalized town hall engagements that ensure continuous accountability.
At the heart of his ambition is a simple but powerful vision: a representative who is present, responsive, and remembered for tangible results.
As he puts it, the real test of leadership is not in promises made during campaigns, but in systems built that continue to serve the people long after one leaves office. For Kareem Lekan Akanbi, the journey to the Kwara State House of Assembly is not just about winning a seat—it is about redefining representation for Ilorin South.
