Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, the former All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Kwara State, has officially declared his intention to contest the state's 2027 governorship election. He made the announcement during a declaration event held in Ilorin on Tuesday, where he promised inclusive development, improved security, and people-centred governance.
The event attracted leaders and stakeholders of the APC, party faithful, and supporters, including the Lagos State chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Mustapha Seigo. In his speech, Bolarinwa stated that he was motivated to join the race by a sense of duty and commitment to serve at a higher level.
Bolarinwa, who previously served as Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government, emphasised that Kwara requires deliberate efforts to deepen development, expand opportunities, and ensure fairness across all regions. He cited his extensive experience in public service, from grassroots politics to legislative representation as former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, and party leadership as preparation for the role.
His priorities include tackling insecurity, strengthening the economy through agriculture and enterprise, and investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He also highlighted youth and women empowerment, as well as inclusive governance that ensures no part of the state is left behind. While acknowledging the efforts of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Bolarinwa noted that governance is a continuum that requires building on existing achievements.
The declaration marked the formal unveiling of his ambition, with stakeholders emphasising unity, peace, and collective responsibility for the state's development. Earlier, the chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Bolaji Alabi Afolabi, in his welcome address, said the event reflected a broader aspiration for a more inclusive and responsive Kwara State. He noted that the decision followed extensive consultations across the state, with feedback from residents highlighting the need for purposeful leadership, competence, and a government that listens.
Afolabi urged party members and supporters to remain united and maintain decorum as political activities gather momentum. He described the declaration as a collective effort aimed at building a state where opportunity is accessible to all, adding that the process must be anchored on peace and issue-based engagement.
