Bashir Bolarinwa, former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.
Bolarinwa announced his ambition on Thursday at the party’s secretariat in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital, when he presented a letter of intent to APC elders, stakeholders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders.
He said his decision was driven by a commitment to public service and a desire to consolidate the gains of progressive governance.
Bolarinwa said his ambition is rooted in a record of service across grassroots, legislative, and national institutions.
He cited his experience as a councillor, two-term chairman of Lagos Mainland LGA, and two-term member of the house of representatives.
The former APC chairman said the roles have equipped him with administrative and legislative experience.
He also referenced his tenure as APC chairman in Kwara, where he led the party during the 2019 elections.
Bolarinwa said the “O to ge” movement reshaped the state’s political landscape under his leadership.
He added that his service as chairman of the governing board of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) broadened his governance perspective.
Bolarinwa said his academic background, including a doctorate in international relations, provides analytical capacity for governance.
He said his leadership is guided by party discipline, unity, and service.
Bolarinwa expressed confidence that the APC would retain power in the state in 2027, urging stakeholders to focus on building a state anchored on peace, equity, and inclusive development.
Sunday Fagbemi, chairman of the APC in Kwara, commended Bolarinwa’s contributions to the party.
Fagbemi described him as qualified to sustain the gains of democracy in the state, adding that the party is committed to a transparent process in selecting its candidate.
The Kwara north APC caucus had on Wednesday endorsed Bolarinwa as its preferred candidate.
