The Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District has made it clear that his political focus is on the 2027 general elections, not the upcoming bye-election declared after Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the seat vacant following Senator Jimoh Ibrahim’s appointment as ambassador.
Speaking on his ambition, he said his interest in the office is not driven by short-term political opportunity but by a desire for meaningful, long-term impact.
“For me, what drives this ambition is the opportunity to truly make a difference in people’s lives,” he said. “While 2026 may appear like a quick win because of the vacancy, I am not interested in just changing titles. I want enough time to serve effectively and deliver real results. That is why 2027 remains my focus.”
He added that although the final decision rests with the All Progressives Congress (APC), he would prefer a full term that allows him to execute meaningful constituency projects and legislative work.
“The party is supreme, and I will align with whatever direction the leadership takes. But personally, I would rather serve a full term than a short tenure that won’t allow proper impact,” he said.
On the long-standing zoning debate in Ondo South, particularly calls for the senatorial seat to be micro-zoned to Ese-Odo Local Government, he acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue but argued that political realities must be considered.
“Yes, zoning is part of our political tradition even if it is not in the constitution. It’s true that Ese-Odo has not held the Senate seat before, but we also have to be careful about imbalance,” he explained.
He noted that since the governor is from Ilaje Local Government Area, which shares a federal constituency with Ese-Odo, zoning decisions must be handled carefully to avoid over-concentration of political offices in one axis.
“You cannot have both the Senate and House of Representatives seats concentrated in the same federal constituency. Politics is about balance and fairness. We must look at the bigger picture,” he added.
On gender inclusion, he expressed concern that Ondo State has never produced a female senator, describing it as a gap that needs urgent correction.
“It is quite unfortunate that we have never had a woman represent Ondo in the Senate. Women are capable and have proven themselves in every sector,” he said.
He pointed to global examples such as Rwanda, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa, where women hold significant political positions, and urged Ondo State to follow suit.
“Inclusiveness is the global standard now. Even the laws encourage greater female participation. It is time Ondo State makes history by producing its first female senator,” he said.
If elected, he promised a more proactive style of representation, focused on legislation and real impact rather than symbolic empowerment.
“Representation is not about sharing motorcycles or giving out empowerment items. It is about bringing federal presence to your people—roads, infrastructure, healthcare, and laws that actually work,” he said.
He stressed issues like coastal erosion in Ayetoro as urgent problems requiring federal intervention, adding that he would prioritise attracting national attention and funding to such challenges.
“That kind of problem cannot be solved at the state level alone. It needs federal support, and that is what I intend to pursue aggressively,” he said.
On internal party processes, he said he supports both consensus and primary elections, depending on what the APC leadership decides.
“I am open to consensus if it is fair and transparent. If not, then we go for primaries. The most important thing is that everyone is carried along,” he said.
He described himself as a loyal party member and emphasized his track record of winning elections and maintaining strong grassroots connections.
“What sets me apart is loyalty and connection with the people. I understand my constituency, and I have proven that I can win their trust,” he said.
On endorsements from political leaders, he acknowledged consultations with key figures including former Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, saying both are aware of his ambition.
He concluded by saying the challenges facing Ondo South, including environmental degradation and economic hardship, require both state and federal collaboration.
“These are not simple problems. Climate change, erosion, and land pressure are real issues. But with the right leadership and federal cooperation, progress is possible,” he said.
