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By Sola Rotimi
Leaders and stakeholders from Ifelodun Local Government Area in Kwara State have publicly declared their support for the governorship aspiration of Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (B.O.B), describing him as a tested leader with the experience and vision to lead the state beyond 2027.
Speaking at a well-attended gathering of political stakeholders across the 18 wards of Ifelodun, the Chairman of Like Minds (Ifelodun), Mr. Bayo Yusuf-Ige, former Councilor, Share, Ifelodun Local Government, described the meeting as more than a routine political event.
“This is not merely a meeting; it is a movement; driven by purpose, powered by the people, and pointed toward progress.”
The Chairman emphasized that Bolarinwa’s support base is rooted in merit and long-standing service rather than political inducement.
“His support is not built on money or manipulation, but on merit and consistency. He has inspired and impacted lives through decades of dedicated service.”
Highlighting Bolarinwa’s political trajectory from councillor to local government chairman, member of the House of Representatives, and state party chairman, the group described his experience as both “rich and rare.”
They also credited him with playing a key role in the 2019 political shift in Kwara State.
“His leadership was instrumental in the historic ‘Otoge’ revolution, which ushered in a new era of accountability and inclusiveness.”
While commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for maintaining the gains of that political transition and securing re-election in 2023, the Like Minds stressed the need for continuity through capable leadership.
“This continuity of progress must now be consolidated with competent and visionary leadership as we approach 2027.”
Addressing the ongoing debate on zoning, the Chairman cautioned against prioritizing regional considerations over competence.
“Leadership should not be zoned by geography alone, but earned through experience, excellence, and empathy.”
He added that Kwara’s political history has consistently allowed candidates from all senatorial districts to compete, urging stakeholders to focus on performance rather than entitlement.
Describing Bolarinwa as a unifier, the group said Kwara needs leadership that fosters cohesion and development across all divides.
They noted that endorsements for Bolarinwa have continued to grow across political groups, professional bodies, and community associations statewide.
The gathering concluded with a formal appeal urging Bolarinwa to declare his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election.
“We respectfully urge him to heed the voice of the people and step forward.”
The group further called on party stakeholders to unite behind his candidacy and appealed to Governor AbdulRazaq to lend his support.
“We urge all stakeholders to rally around a reliable reformer who understands the challenges and how to solve them.”
They also appealed to the national leadership of the APC to prioritize unity, performance, and electability.
The event ended with a voice vote, where attendees overwhelmingly backed Bolarinwa’s potential candidacy, and affirmations of loyalty to the party and nation.
