By Oluwagbemiga Toye
As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its primary election scheduled to hold between May 18 and 20, 2026, according to the party’s revised timetable, stakeholders and loyal members across Ekiti North Senatorial District have been urged to prioritise competence, experience, credibility, and grassroots connection in choosing the party’s candidate.
Among the aspirants contesting for the APC ticket, Senator Ayo Arise has continued to enjoy overwhelming support from party faithful, political observers, and progressive-minded individuals within and outside the district.
Many supporters describe Arise as courageous, accessible, compassionate, and deeply committed to the growth and development of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.
Senator Arise no doubt, possesses the experience, legislative competence, national reach, and grassroots acceptance needed to effectively represent Ekiti North at the National Assembly. He represented Ekiti North Senatorial District between 2007 and 2011 with quality representation, impactful legislative contributions, and consistent advocacy for projects and policies that positively affected the lives of Ekiti people.
Unlike politicians who disappear after elections, Senator Arise has remained connected with the grassroots over the years, identifying with the people in both difficult and prosperous times.
One of the major qualities often attributed to him is his compassionate and selfless leadership style. Associates and beneficiaries of his goodwill describe him as a leader who genuinely prioritises the welfare of the masses above personal interests. Over the years, Senator Arise has continued to support youths, students, widows, artisans, community groups, and vulnerable individuals across the district, even long after leaving office. Supporters even attested that his consistent empowerment initiatives and silent humanitarian efforts distinguish him from many contemporary politicians.
Many APC members in the district believe Ekiti North requires a fearless, outspoken, and experienced representative capable of defending the interests of the people at the national level.
Known for his boldness and intellectual depth, Arise has consistently demonstrated the ability to engage national issues with clarity, courage, and patriotism. His understanding of governance, security, economy, and democratic values, observers say, places him ahead of several contenders in the race.
The senator’s recent engagements across the 56 wards in the district further reinforced his popularity among grassroots supporters. During the visits, many residents reportedly applauded his achievements , especially the facilitation of Federal University of Oye Ekiti whose study centres are almost in all the communities in the Senatorial District while in office and commended his consistent relationship with the people despite leaving the Senate over a decade ago. In several communities visited, supporters openly expressed their desire to see him return to the Senate, insisting that the district deserves more impactful and people-oriented representation.
Party loyalists backing Arise insist that his humility, accessibility, discipline, and fear of God are qualities that make him suitable for the position. They argue that in a time when many citizens complain about disconnect between leaders and the people, Ekiti North needs a representative who understands the realities facing ordinary citizens.
Stakeholders canvassing support for Senator Arise highlighted several reasons why they believe he remains the best choice for the APC ticket. According to them, these include:
✓His vast legislative and political experience
✓Proven commitment to grassroots development
✓Accessibility to ordinary people
✓Courage and boldness in national discourse
✓Loyalty to APC and progressive ideals
✓Strong record of empowerment and service
✓Deep understanding of the needs of Ekiti North
Supporters further argue that working for the victory of Senator Arise at the primary would strengthen the party’s chances at the general election while guaranteeing effective and quality representation for the district.
As the APC primary approaches, party members and leaders have been encouraged to place priority on competence, capacity, and credibility over sentiments and personal interests. For many supporters, the forthcoming primary election presents an opportunity for the party to embrace experienced and visionary leadership by supporting a man they describe as “tested, trusted, and committed to the people.”
To them, Senator Ayo Arise remains the most credible choice for the APC and the best hope for effective representation of Ekiti North Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
