Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South, Lola Ashiru, has formally declared his intention to contest the Kwara State governorship in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at his Offa residence while hosting members of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Ashiru said he is confident of victory, citing his experience, understanding of the state, and long-standing connection with the people of Kwara.
He emphasied that leadership should be based on merit rather than zoning, religion, or place of origin, noting that past governors have emerged from different backgrounds.
While acknowledging the agitation for power shift, particularly from Kwara North, Ashiru maintained that political leadership must be earned through open contest.
On security, the governorship aspirant called for stronger border management and economic empowerment of border communities as a strategy to curb insecurity, especially following recent bandit attacks in Kaiama Local Government Area.
He stressed that prosperity and development in border settlements would reduce crime and external aggression.
Ashiru urged neighbouring states to adopt a coordinated approach in securing and developing border areas, commended affected communities for their resilience, and called on governments at all levels to prioritise development as a pathway to sustainable peace.