A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, also known as BOB, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 election, pledging to prioritise security and human capital development if elected.
TheTimes Nigeria reports that Bolarinwa made the declaration at a well-attended event witnessed by party members and supporters from within and outside the state.
Speaking at the event, the aspirant said his administration would decisively address insecurity across the state, amid growing concerns over killings and kidnappings in parts of Kwara.
“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.
Beyond security, Bolarinwa said his government would prioritise human capital development through strategic investment in key sectors.
“We will invest in education, healthcare and skills acquisition, ensuring that our youths and women are empowered as drivers of growth and stability,” he added.
Explaining his motivation, Bolarinwa said his decision to run was driven by a desire to serve the people at a higher level.
“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 noted that his political journey, which spans roles as councillor, local government chairman, member of the National Assembly and party chairman in Kwara State, has prepared him for leadership.
The APC aspirant also pledged to promote inclusive governance and economic expansion across the state.
“Our state stands at a critical point where we must deepen development, expand opportunities, and ensure that governance reflects fairness, inclusion and justice,” he said.
He added, “We will strengthen our economy through innovation, agriculture and enterprise development, while delivering people-centred governance driven by transparency and accountability.”
Bolarinwa, a former Kwara APC Chairman, called on party leaders and residents of the state to support his ambition.
“This is a collective mission, a movement for a better, stronger and more inclusive Kwara. I cannot do it alone,” he said.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts at the national level, pledging to replicate similar progress in Kwara.
Earlier, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for BOB 2027, Abolaji Afolabi, described the aspiration as a reflection of the people’s desire for better governance.
“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 added that consultations across the state indicated readiness among residents for purposeful leadership.
The declaration ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Benjamin Yisa, former Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly (1999-2013); Rt. Hon. Raphael Adetiba, Deputy Speaker, KWHA (2019-2013); Alhaji Adebayo Adisa, Ifelodun Elder; Alhaji Isiaka Ayinde Jimoh, Former commissioner of Finance and Governorship Candidate, Alliance for Democracy, Kwara State; Alhaji Mustapha Sego, Chairman, NURTW, Lagos State; Alhaji Baba Bako, APC Elder and Alhaji Nasir Alkali, APC Elder.
Others are Alhaji Sheu Ibrahim, APC Elder; Chief Adebayo Anthony Adeyinka, SSA to Mr. President on Grassroot Sports Development; Alhaji Azeez Afolabi, former Chairman, SDP, Kwara State; Chief Gbenle Adeyemi, APC Elder; Gen. Lasisi Abidoye(rtd) and Former President, Omu-aran Development Association; Chief Sunday Oyebiyi, former Chairman, Moro Local Government, Kwara State and Arch. Abogunrin, former Chairman, Ifelodun Local Government, Kwara State.
