Former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi, has formally declared his intention to contest the Ondo South senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, positioning himself as the most experienced and qualified aspirant.
Speaking in Akure, Ajayi said his ambition is built on decades of political experience across multiple levels of governance, including roles in local government administration, the National Assembly, and the state executive.
He explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders across the state, who encouraged him to return to public service to strengthen representation in the district.
According to him, “The move is also to complete unfinished projects and strengthen the district’s voice at the national level.”
Ajayi highlighted his political journey, noting that he has served as councillor, supervisor for works, local government chairman, member of the House of Representatives, and Deputy Governor, giving him a broad understanding of governance.
“I have been in this system from the grassroots… I believe that experience is what our people need at this time,” he said.
The former deputy governor stressed the need for more effective representation in the Senate, arguing that some communities in Ondo South remain underrepresented despite years of democratic governance.
He anchored part of his campaign on zoning and equity, pointing out that his local government is the only one among the six in the district yet to produce a senator since 1999.
“Out of the six local governments in Ondo South, mine is the only one that has not produced a senator. By all political calculations and fairness, it is our turn,” he said.
Addressing speculation about a rift with the current senator, Jimoh Ibrahim, Ajayi dismissed any hostility, stating that both men maintain a cordial relationship.
“I met him one-on-one. He told me himself that I am the most qualified among those aspiring. We are not enemies; political differences do not make us adversaries,” he said.
Ajayi also ruled out interest in any by-election, maintaining that his focus remains firmly on the 2027 polls.
On internal issues within the All Progressives Congress (APC), he rejected concerns about candidate imposition, insisting that the party’s democratic processes—whether consensus or primaries—would determine its flagbearer.
“That is not possible in Ondo State… I don’t belong to any group. I belong to the party and the people,” he said, presenting himself as a unifying figure rather than a factional politician.
Speaking on his chances, Ajayi emphasised his popularity and political track record.
“My name is a household name in Ondo State. Politics is about individuals and popularity, not just party labels,” he said, adding that legislative roles require deep understanding rather than experimentation.
He also expressed concern over abandoned projects initiated during his time in office, stating his desire to return and complete them.
“I laid the foundation for major development projects, but they were not completed. That is why I want to return—to finish what I started,” he said.
Ajayi concluded by calling for unity among political stakeholders in the state, warning that internal divisions have slowed development and urging collective efforts to move Ondo forward.
What you should know
Agboola Ajayi’s declaration signals early positioning for the 2027 elections in Ondo South.
His campaign is anchored on experience, zoning fairness, and addressing perceived representation gaps.
By highlighting his extensive political background and unfinished projects, he aims to appeal to both grassroots supporters and political elites. His stance on party unity and rejection of factional politics also suggests an effort to consolidate support within the APC.
The race could become competitive, especially with incumbency factors and zoning arguments shaping voter sentiment across the district.
