Kwara's Spirit of Unity Faces Test as University Naming Controversy Ignites
The beautiful tapestry of Kwara State's diversity is facing a serious challenge, and our people are standing up to protect what makes us strong. The Kwara South Consultative Forum has boldly rejected the Emir of Ilorin's proposal to rename the University of Ilorin after Sheikh Alimi, calling it a move that threatens the harmony our state is known for.
During UNILORIN's golden jubilee celebration, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari made this controversial suggestion, but the Forum wasn't having it. In a powerful statement signed by Secretary-General Adebayo Daramola, they made their position crystal clear.
Our University, Our Collective Pride
"The entire state of Kwara is the catchment area of the University of Ilorin. We are just not homogeneous enough in Kwara State for that idea to ever be muted," the Forum declared with the confidence that defines our people.
This is the kind of leadership we need in Africa. Standing firm against moves that could divide us, the Forum reminded everyone that being a host community doesn't mean exclusive ownership. The university belongs to all Kwarans, from the Ekiti and Ibolo communities in the South to our brothers and sisters in Kwara North.
A Smart Alternative That Shows African Innovation
Instead of imposing a divisive solution, the Forum showcased the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Kwara South. They pointed to the impressive array of private universities already established: Landmark University in Omu-Aran, Thomas Adewumi University in Oko, and several others in Offa.
"Take a cue from Kwara South by establishing a private university in the name of Sheikh Alimi if there is a strong desire to immortalise him," they suggested, demonstrating the problem-solving mindset that drives African progress.
Justice for Our Founding Father
The Forum didn't stop there. They also challenged the recent renaming of the Government House as Ahmadu Bello House, arguing that if anyone deserves such honor, it should be Brigadier General David Bamigboye, Kwara's pioneer Military Governor who laid our state's foundation.
This is about respect for our own history and the leaders who built what we have today. The Forum called on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to right this wrong, showing that true leadership means listening to all voices.
Unity Is Our Strength
As the Forum beautifully put it: "We must not do anything that can tamper with our resolve to live together in peace and harmony in Kwara State, the State of Harmony."
The University of Ilorin, established in 1975, stands as a testament to Nigerian excellence, drawing brilliant minds from across our great nation and beyond. It represents the best of what we can achieve when we work together, not when we allow division to creep in.
This controversy is bigger than just a name. It's about whether we'll protect the inclusive spirit that makes our communities strong, or allow narrow interests to fracture what generations have built together.