RismadarVoice Reporters, May 21, 2026
Nigeria’s youngest lawmaker, Rukayat Shittu, has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Owode/Onire State Constituency seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly after securing victory in the party’s re-election primary.
Shittu defeated her only challenger, Sulyman Ayegun, during the primary election held on Wednesday to clinch the party’s ticket ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Her emergence marks a significant development in the political history of the constituency, which has traditionally operated a rotational arrangement between the Owode and Onire zones.
The rotational system has historically limited representatives from the constituency to a single term in office, making Shittu’s victory notable within the area’s political structure.
Party officials and observers described the primary as competitive, with Shittu’s success reflecting considerable support among party members and stakeholders.
The victory now positions her as the APC flag bearer for the constituency as political activities gradually shift toward the next phase of campaigns and preparations for the general election.
If she secures victory in the general election, Shittu would become the first lawmaker from the constituency to serve a second term, potentially ending a long-standing political tradition.
Political observers believe the outcome of the primary could shape future discussions around representation and political succession within the constituency.
