Kwara APC elders support Bolarinwa for party’s gov ticket
By Dele Moses
A group of elders and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara have given their support to aspiration of former chairman of the party in the state, Dr Bashir Bolarinwa to be the governorship candidate of the party in the 2027 election.
The people who spoke at a press conference in Ilorin under the banner of the Concerned Elders and Stakeholders in APC hailed the personal qualities and political experience of Bolarinwa which they said make him suitable for the office of the governor of the state.
While there have been agitations in some quarters that it should be the turn of the Kwara North Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state, Bolarinwa hails from the south senatorial district.
But the concerned elders and stakeholders who cut across the three senatorial districts said among all aspirants that have come out to vie for the governorship ticket of APC, Bolarinwa is well known for commitment to service and that he is the most qualified to take over the rein of government from the incumbent governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, next year.
They said that though Bolarinwa is from Kwara South he is well connected and has maintained a strong relationship that transcends tribal and religious divides in the three senatorial districts.
They expressed belief that his administration would not be discriminatory against any of the districts.
Spokesman of the people, Ladi Mustapha, a former legal adviser of the party in the state, said the elders resolved to support Bolarinwa after they made extensive consultations and objective assessment of the current political situation in the state.
He stated: “At this critical juncture in Kwara’s political evolution, we firmly believe that leadership must be entrusted to an individual with proven integrity, experience, capacity, and a unifying disposition. After careful evaluation, Dr. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (B.O.B) clearly stands out above other contenders for the office of Governor.
“Dr. Bolarinwa is widely respected for his honesty, sincerity, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people. His public and private conduct reflects discipline, transparency, and a deep sense of responsibility-qualities essential for credible leadership.
“With a political career spanning over two decades, Dr. Bolarinwa has served at multiple levels of governance, including as Councillor, Local Government Chairman in Lagos State, and Member of the House of Representatives. His tenure as Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State in 2018 further demonstrates his resilience, competence, and exceptional ability to manage both human and material resources effectively.
“As a PhD holder, Dr. Bolarinwa possesses the intellectual depth required to drive socio-economic transformation and educational advancement in Kwara State. His academic background complements his practical experience, positioning him to deliver informed, forward-thinking governance.
“In the face of political challenges, including periods of neglect and marginalization, Dr. Bolarinwa has remained steadfast, dignified, and loyal to the party and its leadership, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His conduct during difficult times underscores his maturity, patience, and commitment to collective progress over personal interest
“Dr. Bolarinwa has built strong relationships across Kwara Central, North, and South, transcending ethnic, religious, and political divides. His ability to connect with traditional ruler, youth groups, professionals, and grassroots communities alike makes him uniquely positioned to foster unity and inclusive governance.
“As a central figure in the historic 2019 O To Ge political movement, Dr. Bolarinwa demonstrated exceptional organizational capacity, grassroots reach, and strategie leadership. His deep understanding of the political terrain across the state ensures that governance under him will be people-centered and responsive.
“With a hackground in business and enterprise, Dr. Bolarinwa brings a practical economic perspective to governance. He understands the importance of internally generated revenue, job creation, and sustainable development, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, commerce, and youth empowerment.
“Above all, Dr. Bolarinwa is a God-fearing individual who views public office as a platform for service. His values are rooted in compassion, justice, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of the people of Kwara State.”
Mustapha said the elders and the stakeholders support Bolarinwa to emerge the next governor of the state because they believe that under his administration, the state would witness growth, unity and sustainable development
“Kwara State deserves a leader who is tested, trusted, and truly connected to the people. Dr. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa embodies these qualities and more. We are confidem that under his leadership, Kwara State will experience inclusive growth, strengthened unity, and sustainable development.
“We therefore strongly endorse and support his aspiration to serve as the next Governor of Kwara State,” he said.
