Thousands of enthusiastic supporters converged on Ilorin on Tuesday as Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, popularly known as BOB, officially declared his intention to run for Governor of Kwara State in 2027.
The event drew large crowds from Lagos, Abuja, and other parts of the country, who trooped into the Kwara State capital to show their support.
In his declaration speech, Bolarinwa described himself as a true son of the soil who has shared in the joys and struggles of the people. He said his decision to contest was not driven by personal ambition, but by a deep sense of duty and a strong desire to serve Kwara at a higher level.
“I stand before you today with gratitude to Almighty Allah and with humility in my heart,” he said. “I, Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, PhD, hereby formally declare my intention to contest for the office of Governor of Kwara State.”
Reflecting on his political journey, Bolarinwa noted that he started from the grassroots as a councillor, rose to become a local government chairman, served in the National Assembly, and later served as the state chairman of his party. According to him, each step has prepared him for this moment.
He stressed that the time has come to move beyond politics and focus on the future of the state. Bolarinwa promised to prioritise human capital development, quality education, youth empowerment, and the security of lives and property across Kwara.
The aspirant assured the people that he would work towards building a state where every district feels included, where farmers and traders are properly supported, and where the economy works for everyone. He also pledged to promote fairness, unity, and inclusive governance.
Bolarinwa called on party leaders, stakeholders, and all well-meaning citizens of Kwara to join him in this collective mission to create a better, stronger, and more prosperous state.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for BOB 2027, Mr Abolaji Afolabi, said the declaration was not just about one individual, but about answering the collective yearning of Kwarans for purposeful and competent leadership.
