…Rules Out By-Election, Backs Okitipupa to Complete Term
…Harps on Competence, Track Record in Candidate Selection

A former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi, on Wednesday declared his intention to contest the Ondo South Senatorial seat in the 2027 general election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajayi, who was the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2024 election, said he had consulted widely with key stakeholders and party leaders, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he confirmed had been informed of his ambition.

Speaking at a press briefing, the former lawmaker—who represented Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives—said his political and administrative experience, alongside his legislative background, has adequately prepared him to represent the senatorial district effectively.
Ajayi, who also served as both caretaker and substantive chairman of Ese-Odo Local Government Area, recently returned to the APC after a stint with the PDP.
He explained that his decision to run was driven not by personal ambition but by a desire to return to the National Assembly and complete projects he initiated during his earlier tenure in the House of Representatives.

The former deputy governor ruled out participation in any by-election, insisting his focus remains firmly on the 2027 general election.
He also advocated that Okitipupa should be allowed to complete the term of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, recently appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United Nations.
According to Ajayi, competence, track record, and courage should be the primary considerations in selecting candidates, stressing that while many aspirants may be qualified, the electorate will ultimately decide based on proven capacity.

“You will all agree that Agboola Ajayi is well known in Ondo State and Nigeria. I have received calls from friends, leaders, and critical stakeholders urging me to run. But the question is: is it about the by-election or the 2027 general election?” he said.
“I have consulted widely, including with the governor, and I am using this opportunity to formally declare my intention.”
He added: “I want to return to the National Assembly to complete the unfinished projects I initiated so that our people can feel the real impact. I am not interested in the by-election; we should allow Okitipupa to complete the term.”

Ajayi further emphasised the need for effective representation, noting that public office should not be about personal benefits but about delivering tangible dividends of democracy.
“This time, we must get it right. We need leaders who can truly represent the people, engage effectively, and bring development home. It’s not about salaries or allowances—it’s about service,” he said.
He concluded by expressing confidence that voters would make informed choices based on credibility and performance, adding, “I have contested, I have won, and I have lost—but I remain committed to serving the people.”