By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

The political landscape of Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency in Kwara State has taken a new turn as former Commissioner, Hon. Mopelola AbdulMalik Bashir, has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Form to contest for the House of Representatives seat in the 2027 general elections.

Her entry sets up a high-stakes political contest against the incumbent, Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who has represented the constituency since 2023.

Mopelola, a two-time former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Water Resources, is widely regarded within political circles as a strong contender, with her candidacy already generating discussions across the constituency.

Known for her work in social development and institutional reforms, she is credited with initiatives such as youth skills training programmes, gender empowerment schemes, and expansion of access to potable water during her tenure in government.

She also played a key role in strengthening gender inclusion policies in the state and contributed to the advocacy that led to the Kwara State Gender Composition Framework, which promotes greater representation of women in governance.

Beyond public office, Mopelola is a prominent figure in civic activism, serving as Gender Coordinator of Kwara Must Change, a pro-democracy group involved in youth mobilisation and political engagement across the state.

Political observers say her entry into the race has reshaped the contest in Ilorin West/Asa, turning what was previously seen as a routine re-election bid into a competitive and closely watched political battle.

Supporters describe her as a reform-driven candidate with strong grassroots connections, especially among women and youth groups, while noting that her campaign is anchored on experience and community engagement.

The incumbent, Shagaya, is expected to rely on his legislative record and established political structure as the contest progresses toward the APC primaries.

With consultations intensifying across wards and party stakeholders, analysts say the constituency has become one of the most politically active battlegrounds ahead of the 2027 elections in Kwara State.