By Chesa Chesa
Former senator, Ayodele Arise, has declared his intention to return to the National Assembly in 2027 to represent Ekiti North Senatorial District, citing a renewed call to service from his constituents and a desire to deepen development across the region.
Arise, who represented the district between 2007 and 2011, said his decision to seek a comeback was driven by persistent appeals from the people, who he noted have continued to reflect on his past achievements and style of representation.
“It is about the people,” he said. “I had the privilege of serving for four years, and since then, there has been a consistent call from my people in Ekiti North who feel nostalgic about the representation and the achievements recorded during my tenure.”
He highlighted the establishment and expansion of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti as one of his key legacies, noting that the institution’s multi-campus structure has significantly boosted access to education, commerce, and socio-economic development across much of the senatorial district.
According to him, the university has grown rapidly over the years, now accommodating an estimated 60,000 students, a development he said has positively impacted land value, population growth, and economic activities in host communities.
Arise added that some local governments yet to fully benefit from the institution’s spread have reached out to him for intervention, further reinforcing his decision to return to the Senate.
“For me, I believe I can still add value. That is why I have decided to run again. Let the people decide who can best represent them,” he said.
On concerns about internal party arrangements and alleged moves to impose candidates through consensus, Arise insisted that the democratic process must be upheld, warning against any attempt to manipulate the system.
“It is our responsibility to educate the people. If anyone wants to keep our people in darkness and underdevelopment, we will resist it. We are ready to deploy technology to expose any form of electoral malpractice,” he stated.
He maintained that his ambition is rooted in improving the welfare of his constituents, stressing that he would not be in the race if he had no value to offer.
“I am in politics to change lives. If I have nothing to add, I will simply focus on my business. But I know I have earned the right to contest and serve again,” he added.
Addressing arguments over zoning and calls for power shift within the district, Arise dismissed such claims as historically inaccurate, pointing out that one federal constituency has held the Senate seat for a significantly longer period.
He explained that while he had served one term, another constituency had occupied the position for about 24 years, arguing that the priority should be competence and the ability to leverage ranking advantages in the Senate.
“At this stage, what we need is a ranking senator who can deliver more for the district. We cannot afford to be shortchanged by sending someone without the necessary experience,” he said.
Arise concluded by reaffirming his commitment to advancing infrastructure, commerce, and overall development across Ekiti North, pledging to continue advocating for the interests of his people if given the mandate in 2027.
