- the lawmaker said he is confident in his capacity to govern the state
- He explained that although he had previously refrained from making his ambition public
- Ashiru acknowledged concerns from Kwara North over alleged marginalisation in the distribution of political power
The Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South, Lola Ashiru, has formally indicated his interest in the 2027 governorship race in Kwara State.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Ashiru made this known on Sunday while hosting executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, at his residence in Offa.
EDITOR’S PICK
- ADC Requests INEC to Postpone FCT Area Council Elections
- Tope Alabi Welcomes Grandchild
- CBN to Introduce New Policy to Regulate Debit Card Issuance, ATM Operations
Speaking during the visit, the lawmaker said he is confident in his capacity to govern the state, citing his long years of political experience and deep understanding of Kwara and its people.
He explained that although he had previously refrained from making his ambition public, he now feels ready to join the contest, stressing that he is well prepared to lead the state from 2027.
Ashiru acknowledged concerns from Kwara North over alleged marginalisation in the distribution of political power but maintained that leadership positions are not handed out automatically.
While expressing sympathy with the zone, he noted that political power must be sought through active participation and competition, not merely by expectation.
The senator also downplayed the influence of religion and ethnicity in determining electoral outcomes in the state, recalling that past elections in Kwara have produced leaders from different religious backgrounds and senatorial districts.
On security, Ashiru reacted to recent bandit attacks in Kaiama Local Government Area, calling on both the federal and state governments to prioritise economic development as part of border security strategies.
According to him, improving livelihoods in border communities would reduce their vulnerability to criminal activities, as prosperity plays a key role in strengthening resistance to insecurity.
He cited similarities among border towns such as Eruku, Koro and Erile, noting that coordinated development efforts by neighbouring states like Kwara, Kogi, Niger and Osun would help curb cross-border crimes.
Ashiru also praised the courage of residents of Woro and Kaiama in the face of the attacks, offering prayers for those who lost their lives.
He further commended the Federal Government for steps already taken to improve security and protect residents in the affected areas.
FURTHER READING
