A former Senator representing Kwara Central, Dr Yahaya Oloriegbe, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Oloriegbe made the declaration on Friday while addressing stakeholders, supporters and party loyalists in Ilorin.
He said his decision to enter the race followed wide consultations and a strong sense of duty to serve the people of the state.
According to him, his ambition is not driven by personal interest, but by the conviction that Kwara needs experienced and prepared leadership at this stage of its development.
The former lawmaker acknowledged the role of the ruling party in stabilising governance in the state, but stressed that more deliberate steps were needed to convert that stability into visible progress.
He said, “Today is not simply a day of announcement. Today is a day of acceptance; a day to accept responsibility and to answer a call.
“I do not make this declaration out of vanity. I do not make it for the title. I make it because I am convinced that the next chapter of Kwara requires tested judgment, disciplined governance, and a leader ready to serve from the first day.
“Foundation matters, but foundation is not completion. Stability is important, but stability is not the destination.”
Drawing from his background as a medical doctor, Oloriegbe likened the state’s condition to that of a recovering patient, saying Kwara needed sustained and structured intervention.
Oloriegbe further stated, “A patient may be stable, and yet not be strong enough to stand; after stability must come strength, and after strength must come full recovery. That is where Kwara is today.
“When I speak about governance, I am not speaking from a distance. I am speaking from experience, leadership is a duty. Public office is a trust, not a trophy.”
The governorship aspirant unveiled a five-point agenda centred on security, economic productivity, healthcare, fairness and effective governance.
He promised disciplined and result-driven leadership if elected.
Oloriegbe also pledged inclusiveness for youths and women, saying governance must go beyond rhetoric to actual empowerment.
“Security is not a slogan; it is the first duty of government. What we need is not noise, but clarity; not promises, but pathways, to the youth of Kwara. You are central to the future of this state. To the women, you are not a constituency to be remembered only during elections,” he added.
Oloriegbe represented Kwara Central in the 9th National Assembly from 2019 to 2023.