Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa has formally declared his intention to contest for the office of Governor of Kwara State in the 2027 general elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Bolarinwa, in a notification addressed to party elders, friends, traditional rulers and religious leaders across the state, said his decision was driven by his commitment to public service and the advancement of Kwara State.
A grassroots politician from Ifelodun Local Government Area, Bolarinwa said his political career began as a councilor before he served as a two-term chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government Council. He also served as a two-term member of the House of Representatives.
He said the various positions he has held gave him practical experience in grassroots administration, legislative work and policy-driven leadership.
Bolarinwa also recalled that in 2018 he was elected chairman of the APC in Kwara State, a position from which he led the party during the 2019 general elections. He described the “O to Ge” movement as a historic political development that produced victory for the APC in all elective positions in the state and ended years of entrenched political dominance.
He added that the outcome of the 2019 elections ushered in a new era of inclusiveness, accountability and progressive governance in Kwara State.
The APC chieftain further stated that he was later appointed chairman of the governing board of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), where he contributed to strengthening regulatory frameworks and promoting excellence in public service broadcasting.
According to him, his years in public office reflect a longstanding commitment to service, party discipline, unity and the development of the people.
Bolarinwa said he has consistently placed collective interest above personal ambition, while working to bridge divides, empower communities and promote sustainable development.
On his academic qualifications, he said he holds a PhD in International Relations as well as degrees from the University of Ilorin and the University of Lagos. He said his educational background has equipped him with the intellectual depth, analytical competence and global perspective needed to address the socio-economic and governance challenges facing the state.
Bolarinwa said it was on the strength of his experience, leadership record and ability to unite diverse interests that he decided to present himself for the governorship race.
He expressed confidence that with the support, prayers and guidance of stakeholders, the APC would consolidate its achievements and record another victory in the 2027 election.
He also appealed for the prayers, counsel and support of party leaders and the people of the state, saying the collective goal should be to build a Kwara State founded on peace, equity, prosperity and shared progress.
Responding, APC State Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi acknowledged the immense contributions of Hon. Bolarinwa to the Otoge struggle and the success of the party in the state.
Fagbemi said the aspirant is eminently qualified to succeed Governor AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman in sustaining the gains of democracy and consolidating on the achievements of the present administration.
He also promised that the party would avoid imposition of candidates by abiding with the policy of consensus or indirect primary.
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