Omar Bolaji Gambari, a governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State, has officially obtained the party's nomination and expression of interest forms ahead of the 2027 elections. The forms were collected at the PDP State Secretariat located along Pipeline Road, Ilorin, on Thursday.
Earlier, Gambari arrived at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, and proceeded to pay homage to the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, seeking royal blessings. At the palace, he also informed the chairman of the state traditional council of his political intentions.
Speaking after receiving the forms, Gambari expressed gratitude to God and lauded the leadership of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for sustaining the PDP structure in the state. He stated, "It is to the glory of Almighty Allah that I am standing before you today as an aspirant under the PDP. Some people thought this day would never come, that PDP would not have a platform for aspirants, but today we are here."
Gambari commended Saraki for keeping faith with party members and aspirants. He recalled, "He promised us last year that we would have a platform to pursue our ambitions, and today that promise has come to reality."
Addressing members of the State Working Committee (SWC), the aspirant reiterated his commitment to the party's consensus arrangement, affirming that he would abide by any decision reached by the leadership. "I was present in Abuja where we all signed and agreed to support the consensus arrangement. Whatever decision the party takes, I will follow," he said.
Gambari dismissed speculations that he intended to contest for a senatorial seat, insisting that his ambition remains the governorship position. "There were rumours that OBG was coming to pick a senatorial form, but today I have picked the governorship form," he declared.
The PDP aspirant further referenced his conduct during the 2018 political process, noting that he remained loyal to the party despite not emerging as the candidate at the time. "In 2018, a consensus candidate emerged and I remained calm. I did not leave the party. Nobody can say OBG will do otherwise now. I have absolute confidence in the party and its leadership," he added.
While reaffirming support for consensus, Gambari expressed optimism about emerging as the party's candidate. "For the avoidance of doubt, consensus we signed and consensus we stand behind. Whatever candidate the party chooses, no problem. But I am also confident that when this ticket is given to OBG, we shall prosecute the election successfully," he said.
He concluded by declaring determination to work towards reclaiming power for the PDP in the 2027 governorship election. "We have one mission and one objective — to take back Kwara State in 2027, Insha Allah. I will devote all my resources and everything I have to achieve that goal," Gambari stated.
