The Kwara State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convention on Saturday assumed a dramatic dimension with the surprise appearance of Hon Moshood Mustapha, a frontline chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former member of the House of Representatives.

Mustapha, widely known in the political circle as MM, was an ally of former Senate President and PDP national leader Dr Bukola Saraki, before aligning with the APC.

After his initial support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, MM became one of the most vocal critics following a disagreement on style of governance and politics.

His presence at the PDP gathering sent ripples across the political divide in the state, igniting fresh speculations about his next political move.

The atmosphere inside the convention hall changed instantly as Mustapha walked to the podium to greet party leaders seated at the high table including the former Senate President.

Delegates and observers erupted in cheers when he entered the packed hall.

Although Mustapha refrained from making any declaration, his attendance has already intensified discussions about potential realignments ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State.

Many see the move as a signal of rapprochement with his former political family led by Saraki, after years of acrimony and political battles that shaped the state’s power dynamics.

Mustapha, who contested the governorship seat in the last election cycle, left the convention venue shortly after his brief exchange with PDP stakeholders.

Yet, his sudden appearance is being viewed as a calculated step with far-reaching implications for the unfolding political permutations in the state.

For years, Mustapha and Governor AbdulRazaq have been at loggerheads, with the APC chieftain openly criticising the governor.

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the APC in Kwara, Abdulwahid Babatunde, described the incident as a new development.

“Well, this is a new development and I cannot say much about it now. But you can call me later for our position on it,” he told Daily Trust. (Weekend Trust, excluding headline)