Former Senate Committee Chairman on Privatization, Ayo Arise, has submitted his nomination and expression‑of‑interest forms to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for 22 May 2026.
Arise, who visited all 56 wards of Ekiti North Senatorial District to meet APC leaders and supporters, said the campaign will build on his tenure as senator from 2007 to 2011. He reported that approximately 7,000 canvassers have been mobilised to rally party members behind his candidacy.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja after collecting the forms, Arise attributed his motivation to “selfless service” and expressed confidence in his prospects. “God has blessed me beyond human comprehension. I am not hungry. I am contesting again to further develop the people and society,” he said. He added that many aspirants run for “money and fame,” but he intends to use any elected position “to serve the people and society.”
The former senator highlighted several projects undertaken during his Senate term, including lobbying for the establishment of the Federal University Oye‑Ekiti (FUOYE), renovating health centres and libraries, supplying electricity and water to communities, and implementing empowerment programmes. He argued that these achievements demonstrate competence and humility, qualities he believes the electorate values over “sentimental politics” and “unpopular agendas.”
Arise called on APC members in Ekiti State to remain focused and united as the party prepares for the forthcoming governorship election and the 2027 general elections. He praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s development agenda and urged the election of “competent hands” to the National Assembly to support the governor’s initiatives.
The APC primary, set for 22 May 2026, will determine the party’s candidates for the upcoming national and state elections. Arise’s participation adds a seasoned former senator to the contest, underscoring the party’s internal competition as it seeks to consolidate its position in Ekiti State and beyond.
