Former Kwara State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election, presenting himself as a seasoned grassroots politician with the experience and capacity to lead the state.

In a statement addressed to party elders, stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders across Kwara, Bolarinwa said his decision was driven by a longstanding commitment to public service and a desire to consolidate the gains of progressive governance in the state.

He emphasised that his ambition is rooted in service rather than personal interest, citing a political career that spans local government administration, legislative roles and national assignments.

Bolarinwa began his public service as a councillor before serving two terms as Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government. He later represented his constituency as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, gaining what he described as valuable legislative and policy experience.

He noted that this blend of grassroots governance and national exposure has equipped him with a broad understanding of public administration and policy-making.

His leadership profile, he added, was further strengthened in 2018 when he emerged as Kwara APC chairman, leading the party into the landmark 2019 general elections. Under his leadership, the "O To Ge" political movement reshaped the state's political landscape, ending years of entrenched dominance and delivering a sweeping victory for the APC.

Beyond partisan politics, Bolarinwa also served as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), where he contributed to regulatory reforms and institutional development in the broadcasting sector.

Academically, he holds a PhD in International Relations, alongside degrees from the University of Ilorin and the University of Lagos. He said his academic background provides him with the analytical depth and global perspective needed to address contemporary governance challenges.

Throughout his career, Bolarinwa said he has remained committed to party discipline, unity and inclusive leadership, adding that his ability to build consensus across diverse groups informed his decision to join the governorship race.

He expressed confidence that, with the support of party stakeholders, the APC would retain power in Kwara and secure a fresh mandate in 2027. He also urged party members and citizens to remain focused on building a state anchored on peace, equity and prosperity.

Party, stakeholders back declaration

Reacting to the declaration, Kwara APC Chairman, Sunday Fagbemi, commended Bolarinwa's contributions to the party, particularly his role in the "O To Ge" movement, describing him as qualified to sustain the achievements of the current administration.

Fagbemi also assured party members of a transparent and credible process in selecting the APC candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

Earlier, APC stakeholders in Kwara North endorsed Bolarinwa's aspiration, citing his leadership record and experience. The endorsement was made under the auspices of Edu APC Progressives and Patigi APC Like-Minds at a news conference in Ilorin.

A former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Benjamin Yissa-Ezekiel, described Bolarinwa as "competent, compassionate and capable," with a proven leadership track record.

Similarly, Patigi Local Government spokesperson, Fatima Gogata, said the endorsement was unanimous among party stakeholders, stressing that it was based on competence and commitment to public service.

Also speaking, Edu LGA spokesman, Mohammed Baba-Lafiagi, reaffirmed what he described as total support for Bolarinwa, noting that his experience and acceptability across the state make him a strong contender.

The development comes a day after the Kwara North APC Caucus also endorsed Bolarinwa as its preferred candidate, describing him as a leader with integrity, administrative competence and unifying capacity ahead of the 2027 election.