Former All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Kwara, Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state on the platform of the party.
Bolarinwa, a former House of Representatives member, made the declaration at an event attended by party members and supporters.
He said his administration would prioritise the security of lives and property if elected.
“We will decisively tackle and comprehensively address insecurity at all levels, ensuring the safety of lives and property across every part of the state,” he said.
Bolarinwa said his ambition comes amid rising insecurity in parts of the state, including incidents of killings and kidnappings.
“We will invest in education, healthcare and skills acquisition, ensuring that our youths and women are empowered as drivers of growth and stability,” he said.
Bolarinwa said his decision to run was driven by a desire to serve the people, adding that his government would also focus on human capital development.
“Today, I stand before you not just as a politician, but as a son of the soil who understands the struggles and aspirations of our people,” he said.
He said his political experience as a councillor, local government chairman, member of the National Assembly, and party chairman has prepared him for the role.
“Our state stands at a critical point where we must deepen development, expand opportunities, and ensure that governance reflects fairness, inclusion and justice.
“We will strengthen our economy through innovation, agriculture and enterprise development, while delivering people-centred governance driven by transparency and accountability.
“This is a collective mission, a movement for a better, stronger and more inclusive Kwara. I cannot do it alone,” he said.
Bolarinwa also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “Renewed Hope Agenda”, promising similar progress in the state.
Earlier, Abolaji Afolabi, chairman of the central planning committee for BOB 2027, said the aspiration reflects the collective desire for better leadership in Kwara.
“It is about the collective yearning of our people for a Kwara that works for everyone, where opportunity is a right, not a privilege,” he said.
Afolabi said consultations across the state show that residents are ready for purposeful leadership.
“We are confident that this is the leadership Kwara needs at this critical moment,” he added.
The event was attended by political stakeholders and community leaders from within and outside the state.