Mashood Mustapha: X-ray of His Political Conviction

By Jacob Oyewale

Hon. Mashood Mustapha popularly known as MM needs no introduction in Kwara State politics. He is a successful businessman who ventured into politics to add value and contribute to community, state and national development.

MM joined Kwara’s political landscape with finesse, capacity, grassroots acceptance, resourcefulness, competence and dedication. Mustapha’s experience in public service and business earned him respect, leading to his appointment as Special Adviser and Commissioner of different ministries in Kwara State.

In 2011, Mashood Mustapha contested for the Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives and won with a margin. His performance while in the green chamber remains a reference point for other Federal Lawmakers. He impacted the lives of his Constituents positively and also facilitated projects/programmes to fast-track community development.

Upon completion of his tenure in the House of Representatives, Mashood Mustapha was appointed as the Special Adviser on Inter-Parliamentary affairs, Protocol and Special Duties to the President of the 8th Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. The Ilorin West Politician displayed his administrative prowess, people skills and sense of balance to manage the Office of the Senate President for greater productivity.

For records, MM in over two decades in the political circle has proven to be a politician with strong conviction, self-worth and loyalty. He is a dedicated, committed and loyal party man.

However, he is a blunt politician with an amazing personality. He is firm, courageous and fearless. MM is not a sycophant, yes man or a backbiter. The former Federal Lawmaker is straightforward and bold in taking firm decisions in line with his convictions.

Hon. Mashood Mustapha won’t leave you in doubt of his political moves or actions. He takes action with his full chest. This led to his resignation as Special Adviser to the Senate President, a position equivalent to a Ministerial role, in 2018. It’s on record that MM expressed his views in-house before taking the bold step of championing the OTOGE movement with other gladiators.

Surprisingly, MM during his governorship aspiration during the OTOGE era stuck to an issues-based campaign against name-calling and other shenanigans.

Furthermore, Mustapha is a politician with class and excellent character. He values relationships and friendship. No wonder he has maintained good relationships with his allies and business network irrespective of their political affiliations. He prioritizes Kwara’s interest above personal gains.

All these good virtues account for his persecution by the State force. They are targeting his businesses within Kwara State for daring to reject alleged inflated contractual agreement on Kwara Hotel remodelling. His property was destroyed for speaking up against contractual arrangements that would affect the state in future.

It’s interesting to note that Mashood Mustapha remains undaunted and unshaken amidst shenanigans by elements intoxicated by power. To the glory of God, MM is moving forward and expanding his business empire within and beyond the state. His grassroots popularity is growing daily. MM is the man of the people and would continue to connect with the people by providing support for the needy and less privileged in the society.