Former Senate Committee Chairman on Privatisation, Ayo Arise, has officially picked up the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for May 22, 2026.
Arise made the announcement in Abuja, expressing confidence in securing victory at the primaries and ultimately representing Ekiti North Senatorial District again.
He said his renewed ambition is driven by a desire to consolidate on his previous tenure in the Senate between 2007 and 2011, where he said he focused on community development and empowerment initiatives.
According to him, he has already toured all 56 wards in the senatorial district to consult APC leaders and stakeholders, and has also mobilised about 7,000 canvassers to support his campaign.
Arise insisted that his return to the Senate is not motivated by personal gain, but by a commitment to public service and development.
“God has really 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 his past achievements included facilitating the establishment of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, as well as building and renovating health centres, libraries, and providing basic infrastructure across communities in Ekiti North.
Arise also said he intends to align with the administration of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji to accelerate development in the state, noting that stronger collaboration between state and federal lawmakers is essential.
He called on APC members to remain united ahead of the 2027 general elections and other upcoming polls, urging continued support for the party’s candidates.
Arise further stated that future political engagement should prioritise competence and service delivery, while assuring supporters that “the era of working without commensurate compensation is gone.”
