PDP Picks Ex-CAN Secretary as Running Mate in Kwara Governorship Race

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction in Kwara State aligned with the Nyesom Wike bloc has announced former Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Cornelius Fawenu, as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Kawu Agaka, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued in Ilorin on Wednesday by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Adewara.

According to the statement, Agaka formally communicated his choice of Fawenu in a letter to the party’s state leadership after consultations with key stakeholders across the state.

Party pushes “balanced and inclusive” ticket

The PDP said the selection was part of efforts to present a ticket it believes is balanced, competent and reflective of broad-based interests within the state.

It added that the decision was aimed at offering voters a credible alternative to the current administration in Kwara State.

“Rev. Fawenu is a man of proven integrity, humility, compassion and exceptional leadership whose emergence reflects the party’s commitment to presenting a competent, inclusive and people-oriented ticket,” the statement quoted Agaka as saying.

The party further described the Kawu/Fawenu ticket as one capable of restoring what it called purposeful governance, economic stability and social justice in the state.

Fawenu, who hails from Babaloma in Kwara South Senatorial District, currently serves as PDP Chairman in the senatorial district.

He is also the Presiding Pastor of Oasis of Wisdom Bible Church, Ilorin and holds a degree in Biochemistry from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He has spent more than two decades in Christian ministry.

The party said his selection followed what it described as a rigorous internal screening process involving four shortlisted aspirants.

According to the PDP, Fawenu’s experience as a cleric and interfaith advocate positions him as a unifying figure capable of strengthening religious harmony and community engagement across Kwara State.

It also noted that his long-standing involvement in grassroots mobilisation, community development and dialogue with traditional institutions informed his selection.

“The ticket embodies competence, integrity, experience and inclusive leadership required to reposition Kwara State,” the party stated.

The PDP added that the choice reflects its broader strategy of combining experience, innovation and religious balance as it prepares for the 2027 governorship contest.