The media team of Senator Ayo Arise has dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting that the former lawmaker is too old to contest the Ekiti North Senatorial seat again, describing the narrative as misleading and politically motivated.
Reacting to a post allegedly credited to a group known as Concerned Citizens of Ekiti North, titled “No Waste Recycling, Daddy Must Rest,” the team said the publication was filled with insinuations aimed at discrediting the former senator.
In a statement by Arise media team affirmed that the senator remains firmly in the race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for Ekiti North Senatorial District, adding that he is a leading contender for the position.
According to the media team, Arise’s decision to contest is in line with constitutional provisions, the APC constitution, and relevant electoral laws, which do not bar him from seeking office.
They further argued that age should not be a determining factor in legislative competence, stressing that the former senator is physically and mentally fit to handle the responsibilities of the office.
“Experience remains a critical factor in legislative duties across the world. Returning lawmakers often have a better grasp of parliamentary processes and are more effective in delivering results from the onset,” the statement read.
“All over the world, experience matters in legislature. Returning legislators have better opportunities than rookie legislators and they don’t need to waste the first few years learning the ropes of what legislative business requires. This time around, Ekiti North deserves to be represented by a Senator that will command the respect of his colleagues and Senator Ayo Arise fits the bill.
Citing examples from the United States Senate, the team noted that several lawmakers in their 70s and 80s continue to serve actively, worthy of mention in U.S include: Chuck Grassley remains the oldest sitting member at 92 years old. It must be borne in mind that the average age of senators at the start of the 119th Senate in early 2025 was approximately 63.9 years. 43 U.S. Senators are 69 and older. The Senate requires experience that is why it is reserved for matured minds.
The remaining 19 oldest U.S. Senators ranked by age include Bernie Sanders (84), Mitch McConnell (84), Jim Risch (82), Angus King (81), Dick Durbin (81), Richard Blumenthal (80), Ed Markey (79), Mitt Romney (79), Mazie Hirono (78), Jeanne Shaheen (78), Peter Welch (78), Roy Wyden (76), Patty Murray (75), Debbie Stabenow (75), John Reed (75), John Boozman (74), John Cornyn (74), Susan Collins (73) and Shelly Moore Capito (72).
The Senate is not designed for babies. It is for matured minds. It is always peopled by eminent and distinguished individuals who have garnered experiences and made impacts in various fields of human endeavours and blessed with previous stints in governance and leadership at the highest level,
emphasizing that legislative institutions are traditionally composed of seasoned individuals with vast experience”
The statement added that Ekiti North stands to benefit from Arise’s experience, influence, and established network, which it said are essential for attracting development and ensuring effective representation.It also claimed that constituents in the district are calling for his return, citing what it described as his impactful performance during his previous tenure in the Senate.
“Senator Ayo Arise’s renewed ambition is driven by a desire to restore quality representation, sponsor impactful legislation, and facilitate meaningful development projects for the people of Ekiti North,” the statement said.
The media team further maintained that Arise’s track record in lawmaking, constituency projects, and empowerment initiatives distinguishes him as a capable candidate.
It urged members of the APC and voters in Ekiti North to support his candidacy, expressing confidence that he would deliver improved representation if elected.
“Senator Ayo Arise has done it before and is prepared to do even more if given another opportunity to serve,” the statement concluded