By Joseph Erunke

Elders of the All Progressives Congress,APC, across the three senatorial districts of Kwara State have unanimously endorsed Dr. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (BOB) as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

A statement by Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa Media Office said the endorsement was announced on Sunday at a news conference in Ilorin, “where party elders declared that Bolarinwa’s track record of integrity, governance experience and unifying leadership qualities place him ahead of other aspirants.”

Speaking on behalf of the group, former APC Legal Adviser, Alhaji Ladi Mustapha, said the decision followed a careful evaluation of all contenders.

“At this critical juncture in Kwara’s political evolution, leadership must be entrusted to an individual with proven integrity, experience, capacity and a unifying disposition. After careful evaluation, Bolarinwa clearly stands out,” he stated.

Bolarinwa, a seasoned politician with over two decades of public service, began his career as a councillor and later served two terms as Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government. He also represented his constituency in the House of Representatives for two terms.

He further strengthened his political credentials as Chairman of the APC in Kwara State in 2018, a role the elders described as marked by resilience, competence and effective management.

Having formally declared his governorship ambition on April 28, 2026, and submitted his nomination forms, Bolarinwa has placed security at the forefront of his campaign, particularly addressing rising banditry in Kwara North and South.

He has also outlined priorities in healthcare, education, agriculture and social welfare, positioning his agenda around people-focused development.

The elders commended his ability to build bridges across ethnic, religious and political lines, citing his strong ties with traditional rulers, youths, professionals and grassroots communities as a key strength.

Former Deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Mr. Raphael Adetiba, emphasized the need for continuity driven by competence.

“What we need is a leader who can sustain the achievements of the present administration and continue delivering the dividends of democracy,” he said.

The elders concluded that Bolarinwa embodies the qualities of a tested and trusted leader committed to service, expressing confidence that his leadership would usher in unity, inclusive growth and sustainable development for Kwara State.