A former member of the House of Representatives and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Gbenga Makanjuola, has picked the party’s nomination form to contest the Kwara South Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makanjuola made his intention known during a visit to the APC state secretariat in Ilorin on Friday, where he met with members of the State Working Committee led by the party chairman, Sunday Fagbemi, and formally submitted his letter of intent.
He said, “I am here by the grace of God to indicate my interest to represent Kwara South in the next dispensation. Whatever we say or do, it is only God that determines who leads.”
The former federal lawmaker noted that his decision to rejoin the race was rooted in his commitment to service, recalling that his previous electoral successes were driven by performance and grassroots support rather than financial inducement.
“To the glory of God, in my previous elections, no delegate collected a penny from me, both at the primaries and the general elections. That, for me, is a testament to God’s favour and the confidence of the people,” he stated.
Makanjuola highlighted his wealth of experience, revealing that he had spent about 16 years within the National Assembly system, including his time as a legislator, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, and his subsequent engagements with the leadership of the Senate.
“The essence of representation is accessibility and the protection of the people’s interests. It is about listening to their aspirations and acting with the fear of God. That is the principle I intend to uphold,” he added.
He further recalled that at the end of his tenure, he toured all 42 wards in his constituency to personally appreciate constituents for their support, describing the gesture as a demonstration of his accountability and strong grassroots connection.
Makanjuola assured party leaders and supporters that he would justify their confidence in him if given the mandate to contest and eventually elected to represent Kwara South in the Senate.
Responding, APC State Chairman, Fagbemi, described the aspirant as a modest and good man.
“He is a good man: modest and honest. If it were within my power, I would hand him the ticket immediately. But as we all know, it is God who ultimately decides,” he said.