Hon. Alhaji Sarafadeen Babatunde Oladipo popularly known as LAKA has officially declared his intention to contest for the Essa/Shawo/Igboodun Constituency seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly.
The event, held at the Open Space Film House in Offa and covered by 9japarrot was a massive show of force, characterized by a sea of supporters donning “LAKA” customized caps and a heavy presence of All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwarts, religious leaders, and youth groups.
Addressing stream of supporters, Oladipo affectionately called Omo Alubarika by his admirer described his ambition as a commitment to redefine representation.”
He emphasized that his goal is to move beyond traditional politics and ensure that every household in the constituency feels the direct impact of leadership.
“This is not just an ambition, it is a driver of development,” LAKA added.
“We are at a critical moment where our constituency requires a voice that acts as a bridge between the people and the government. My mission is to connect our people directly to opportunities,” He said.
The aspirant outlined a comprehensive legislative roadmap focused on grassroots growth, which includes:
Youth & Women Empowerment: Specialized skills acquisition, ICT digital training, and entrepreneurship support.
Infrastructure: Lobbying for improved roads, stable electricity, and better healthcare facilities.
Economic Growth: Attracting both local and foreign investment to the Essa, Shawo, and Igboodun communities.
The declaration was a spiritual and political homecoming as Interfaith opening prayers were led by Pastor Adeniji Nathaniel and Imam Salman Subli, followed by a sermon from the representative of the Chief Imam of Offa, Alhaji Samsudeen Al-imam Oba-ilekewu.
The Naibu-l-Imam of Offa, Sheikh (Dr.) Kazeem Baba, also lauded the aspirant’s character and dedication to community service.
Political heavyweights at the event, including the Offa APC Chairman, Alhaji Nasiru Adekunle Moshood (Kunle Papa), and the Shawo South/West Ward Chairman,Hon. Gbadamosi Rasak, spoke highly of Oladipo’s loyalty to the party and his unifying capacity.
Hon. Riskat Dare, the APC Women Leader for Shawo South/East, and Hon. Abiodun Usman, the Eesa B Youth Leader, both emphasized that LAKA represents the hope of the grassroots, citing his consistent support for the party’s ideals.
Earlier during his remarks, Oladipo LAKA took time to commend the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, pledging to work in tandem with the “Renewed Hope” and “Kwara First” agendas to bring the dividends of democracy to his constituency.
He specifically acknowledged the mentorship of figures such as Hajia Fareeda Dankaka and Hon. Femi Agbaje White, noting that their leadership has paved the way for young technocrats like himself to offer themselves for service.
9japarrot reports that LAKA’s entrance into the race has significantly reshaped the 2027 contest, positioning him as a front-runner for the APC ticket in the Essa/Shawo/Igboodun Constituency.