The Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South, Architect Oyelola Yisa Ashiru, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State, promising a “Covenant” of inclusive governance and generational renewal.
In a detailed policy document titled “My Kwara Covenant,” the lawmaker while addressing a large crowd during his official declaration covered by 9japarrot on Friday stated that his mission is to transition the state from potential to prosperity, leveraging the foundational work already established by the incumbent Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Senator Ashiru noted that his aspiration is not to start from scratch but to accelerate the development trajectory set by the current administration.
He lauded Governor AbdulRazaq for strengthening infrastructure and fiscal discipline, which he described as the solid platform necessary for Kwara’s next phase.
“The foundation has been built. Investment is flowing. Everything this state needs to move from potential to prosperity is within reach. I am asking for the mandate to govern Kwara State, not to manage or preside over it, but to transform it deliberately and systematically,” Ashiru added.
Addressing the security challenges facing rural communities, the Lawmaker expressed concern over the threat posed by armed groups to the state’s agricultural belt. He maintained that security would be the primary pillar of his administration, acknowledging that without safety, the “State of Harmony” cannot thrive.
He referenced the struggles of farmers who have abandoned their fields and mothers who lack access to emergency healthcare as the driving force behind his binding commitment to the people.
Ashiru highlighted his track record in the National Assembly, citing over ₦50 billion in constituency investments facilitated for Kwara South, including vocational centres, roads, and health facilities. However, he admitted that legislative efforts have limitations that only executive power can solve.
“Seven years in the Senate have taught me a crucial lesson, federal commitment without state execution is a promise that never lands. A Governor determines whether clinics are staffed, which contractors deliver, and whether funds reach the people,” he said.
Ashiru’s blueprint focuses on replicating the success of industrial giants already in the state, such as the Olam cashew plant and KAM Steel. He argued that Kwara’s strategic position as a bridge between the North and South makes it a natural hub for raw commodity processing.
The declaration, held before a cross-section of political heavyweights and community leaders, received strong commendations. Stakeholders present included the Executive Director (Admin & HR) of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), Hajia Bilqis Jumoke Sanni; Alhaji Tajudeen Olabisi Abioye; former Commissioner Ben Duntoye; and Alhaji Tajudeen Aro, among others.
Stakeholders while delivering their goodwill messages praised Ashiru’s performance in the Senate, particularly his roles in the University of Archaeology at Esie and the upgrade of Federal Polytechnic Offa, expressing confidence that his experience would translate into effective governance at the state level.
In his final notes, Ashiru calls on professionals, academics, and traditional institutions to test and challenge his blueprint, insisting that the document is a working tool that will be refined through continuous consultation before the 2027 polls.
