The senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District, Senator Lola Ashiru, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State, expressing confidence in his experience and credentials to lead the state.
Ashiru made the declaration on Sunday while receiving executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kwara State Council, at his country home in Offa.
He said he had decided to formally join the race after years of public service, adding that he possesses the capacity and understanding of the state required to govern effectively.
“I have come into this race. Before now, I have not come out to say I will contest, but In Sha Allah, I am going to contest because I believe I have the best of credentials to rule Kwara State for the next four years starting in 2027. I believe I understand the people and the place called Kwara,” he said.
Ashiru noted that leadership should emerge from a fair and open process, stressing that political power must be earned through participation and credibility rather than sentiment.
He acknowledged calls for power shift to Kwara North but maintained that the governorship should remain open to all qualified contenders.
“The best thing is to give everybody a chance to choose the best leader. I sympathise with the people of Kwara North because they have been out of power for a long time and have reasons to say it is their turn. But power is not served on a plate; you struggle for it and present yourself,” he said.
The senator added that religion or place of origin should not be used as criteria for leadership in the state, citing past elections where candidates from different backgrounds emerged victorious.
He also emphasised the role of prayer and divine guidance in leadership pursuits, saying he believes God will guide his political journey.
Speaking on the recent attacks in Kaiama Local Government Area, Ashiru called for stronger collaboration among states sharing borders to tackle insecurity.
He said promoting economic development and prosperity in border communities would reduce the likelihood of residents collaborating with criminal elements.
“Our border links with neighbouring communities must be well managed. The first and most important step is to spread prosperity across these areas. When people are satisfied with the system, the likelihood of collaborating with criminals becomes very low,” he said.
Ashiru commended residents of affected communities for their resilience and prayed for the victims of the recent attacks, while urging governments at all levels to prioritise development and coordinated security strategies to ensure lasting peace.
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