The National Vice Chairman (South-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Isaacs Kekemeke, has formally declared his intention to contest the Ondo South senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.
Kekemeke made the announcement in a statement issued on Tuesday, stating that his decision followed sustained pressure and encouragement from key stakeholders across the senatorial district, including party leaders, women groups, and youth organisations.
According to him, the call to run came after extensive consultations within the party and with influential figures in the state, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he described as the leader of the party in the state.
“This then is my declaration: After due consultation with the governor of the state, who is the leader of the party, and other leaders, I have decided to take up the gauntlet,” Kekemeke said in the statement.
He added that he would seek the APC ticket for the senatorial election and expressed confidence in his ability to emerge victorious, pledging to provide effective and people-oriented representation if elected.
“I shall seek the ticket of our great party for the senatorial election and I shall, when I win, give to the senatorial district fair, fearless, quality and needs-driven representation,” he said.
Outlining his vision, Kekemeke emphasised his commitment to prioritising the interests of the people of Ondo South, promising to serve with humility and a strong sense of duty.
“I shall be a voice for Ondo South, Ondo State, its government and its people, and I shall do so with humility and a high sense of duty and responsibility. My watchword shall be: the people first,” he added.
The APC chieftain noted that the confidence reposed in him by various stakeholders played a crucial role in shaping his decision to enter the race. He said the encouragement he received reflected trust in his leadership capacity and track record in public service.
Kekemeke brings decades of political and administrative experience to the contest. Over the years, he has held several key positions in Ondo State, including serving as minority leader in the old Ondo State House of Assembly. He also served as Secretary to the State Government, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and Commissioner for Works, Lands and Housing.
In addition to his roles at the state level, Kekemeke has been actively involved in party administration. He previously served as chairman of the APC in Ondo State and currently holds the position of National Vice Chairman (South-West), making him one of the influential figures within the party’s national structure.
Political observers say his declaration signals the early start of political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly within the APC in Ondo State. The Ondo South senatorial district is expected to witness a competitive race, with multiple aspirants likely to emerge across party lines.
Analysts also note that Kekemeke’s longstanding involvement in governance and party leadership could play a significant role in shaping his campaign, especially as he seeks to leverage his experience and network within the APC.
His emphasis on consultation with party leadership, including Governor Aiyedatiwa, is seen as an effort to demonstrate alignment with the state’s political structure, which could prove crucial in securing the party’s ticket during the primaries.
As the political landscape begins to take shape ahead of 2027, Kekemeke’s entry into the race adds to the growing list of aspirants positioning themselves for key legislative seats. His campaign message, centered on “the people first,” is expected to resonate with voters as he outlines his plans for representation and development in Ondo South.
Further developments are anticipated in the coming months as other aspirants declare their intentions and political parties begin internal consultations and preparations for the electoral cycle.
