A world-renowned neurosurgeon and national honouree, Prof. Wale Sulaiman, has declared his interest to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State.

Mr Sulaiman made the declaration on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting with party leaders and executives at Ajase-Ipo Ward I in the Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.

The medical practitioner said his decision followed years of consultations and careful consideration across communities and interest groups in the state.

According to him, the process leading to the decision began several years ago and involved engagements with stakeholders from different parts of Kwara State.

“I am not here to begin campaigns. That will come at the appropriate time when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) gives the go-ahead.

“Today, I am formally expressing my interest in contesting for the office of governor of Kwara State in 2027,” he said.

Mr Sulaiman commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as notable achievements since assuming office in 2019.

He said the state required continuity, capacity and strong networks to consolidate and expand on the gains recorded by the current administration.

The neurosurgeon added that Kwara State would benefit from leadership that enjoys respect at the international, national and local levels.

Speaking at the meeting, a former Commissioner for Water Resources, Bolaji Khaleel, described Mr Sulaiman as a credible aspirant with the experience and capacity to contribute to the state’s development.

Also speaking, a former member of the Kwara State House of Assembly (1979–1983), Abdulkarim Kadiri, recalled that during the 2023 electioneering, some communities expressed the view that Mr Sulaiman possessed qualities suitable for higher political office.

In his remarks, a former Special Adviser to Mr AbdulRazaq from Isin Local Government Area, Awoyemi, said that Mr Sulaiman’s entry into the race had attracted support from stakeholders across local governments.

Mr Awoyemi cited the neurosurgeon’s professional achievements and contributions to the state and the country as factors influencing the support. 

(NAN)