A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Kwara State, Prince Haliru Mahmud, on Wednesday stepped down from the 2027 race and endorsed fellow aspirant, Seriki Gambari.

Mahmud announced his decision in Ilorin at a gathering initially expected to serve as his formal declaration for the governorship contest.

His withdrawal drew reactions from supporters and party members, many of whom had anticipated a declaration speech.

Explaining his earlier ambition, Mahmud said it was driven by calls for equity, noting that Kwara North had yet to produce a governor since 1999.

"Kwara State is blessed with three senatorial districts, yet since the dawn of democracy, only Kwara North has not produced an executive governor. This is not just unfair; it is disheartening," he said.

However, he said consultations and political considerations informed his decision to step down and support Seriki.

"Governorship is not about self; it is about service. And service sometimes demands sacrifice. "Instead of declaring my candidacy today, I stand before you to declare something even greater: my decision to step down from the contest and extend my full, unalloyed support to Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari."

Mahmud described the move as a sacrifice aimed at promoting unity within the party ahead of the election.

"My decision is not a retreat; it is a rallying call. It is not weakness, it is wisdom. It is a sacrifice for unity and progress," he said.

He also urged stakeholders from Kwara North to remain committed to their quest for political inclusion, assuring them that their aspiration remained valid.

Describing Seriki as a loyal party member, Mahmud said his endorsement was based on the need for cohesion and effective leadership.

The development is expected to influence political alignments within the Kwara APC ahead of the 2027 governorship election.