The race for the Ilorin South House of Assembly seat took a definitive turn on Sunday as the Chairman of the S.O.F Foundation, Alhaji Rilwan Sulyman Olawale officially declared his intention to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The declaration took place at Tanke Primary School, where the aspirant was greeted by a massive crowd of supporters chanting songs of solidarity.
The event signaled the formal takeoff of the “SOLID Movement,” a political pressure group driving Olawale’s legislative ambition.
Following the public declaration, Alhaji Olawale paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Alangua of Tanke, who was joined by fifteen Magajis (family heads) from the district.
During the visit, the Alangua expressed immense joy, testifying to the philanthropic impact of the SOF Foundation long before the Chairman harbored political interests. The monarch noted that Olawale’s interventions have been felt across all wards within Ilorin South, describing his candidacy as a natural progression of his service to the people.
“We have experienced the impact of SOF firsthand,” the traditional leader remarked while offering prayers for the campaign’s success. “This impact isn’t limited to his ward alone but covers the entire Ilorin South.”
Supporters at the rally praised the level playing field provided by the state leadership, particularly the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
“We thank Governor AbdulRazaq for emphasizing youth inclusion in the political space,” a lead coordinator of the SOLID Movement stated.
“It is a welcome development to see Kwara youths taking the lead, and SOF is the man of the moment.” He added.
9japarrot reports that Olawale’s momentum has been building steadily, bolstered by a recent endorsement at the APC Mega Unity Rally in Ilorin.
Supporters describe his victory as inevitable, citing his track record in community development and his ability to consolidate support across various traditional and youth structures.
As the 2027 electoral cycle intensifies, the entry of Alhaji Rilwan Sulyman Olawale is expected to further shift the dynamics in Ilorin South, with his camp promising a campaign focused on “solid” representation and grassroots empowerment.
