Date: 2018-04-10

A surprised visit by Emir of Ilorin Emirate to a popular banker in Abuja has caused generated ripples and rumours of political endorsements of the host towards 2019 gubernatorial elections in Kwara State.

The Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari paid a private visit to the Abuja residence of Lukman Olayiwola Mustapha, a top bank executive with the FCMB and President of Coremate Forum of Ilorin Professionals.

Mr. Mustapha, a proprietor of a Radio Station in Kwara State is said to be groomed and pressured to contest for the 2019 governorship race by notable citizens of the state especially, professionals, technocrats and youths for his pedigree in business, philanthropism and academic accomplishments. 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.

However, PRNigeria also learnt that the royal visit of the Emir to the banker had nothing to do with politics of 2019. Speaking during his visit with his selected aides, the royal father said he was proud to identify with his subjects who are impacting positively to the society in their various professional careers, urging the banker and members of his professional groups in the Coremate to remain good ambassadors of Ilorin Emirate. Responding, 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 all his subject in different parties, different fields and professions without bias and sentiment. He does such visits to encourage them to do more."