Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for Ondo Central Senatorial District, in the 2027 general elections, Senator Ayo Akinyelure has declared that his ‘political ambition’ should never come at the cost of any constituent’s life.

Akinyelure, a two-term federal lawmaker popularly known as “Kilekile” (Bulldozer), warned his supporters against violence, intimidation and personal attacks ahead of elections.

He said his campaign would be anchored on issues, competence, ideas and his record in public office rather than insults, character assassination or confrontation with political opponents.

Speaking in Akure shortly after arriving in the state, Akinyelure urged his supporters to conduct themselves with restraint and dignity throughout the electioneering period.

He said the emerging political movement under the ADC must distinguish itself by presenting voters with credible alternatives and practical solutions to the challenges confronting the country.

“Let us make this election a contest of ideas, records, character and competence, not violence, insults or intimidation. Let me make this clear: no political ambition is worth the life of any member of our constituency.

“My prayer is that if the position I am seeking will lead to the loss of any life among our people, may I not win the election.

“But if my ultimate desire is to lift people, create opportunities and make life more comfortable for our people when I return to office, then I pray that God grants that wish,” Akinyelure said.

He added: “I therefore urge all our supporters not to fight, abuse, intimidate or attack anyone because of politics. Our campaign must be based on issues, ideas, records and the capacity to deliver meaningful development to the people.

“We must go to the people with facts and tell them what we achieved during our previous representation. Let the people listen to all candidates and make their choice freely and democratically.”

His appeal comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with political parties and emerging platforms beginning to mobilise supporters and position themselves for the contest.

Speaking further, Akinyelure said politicians should not allow political differences to degenerate into violence, stressing that elections should be contests over ideas, leadership capacity and records of service.

The ADC candidate said his decision to return to the political arena was driven by a desire to continue serving and empowering the people rather than promoting bitterness or division.

According to him, his previous campaigns were largely built around his record in office, which he said would again form a major part of his campaign ahead of the 2027 election.

“My previous campaigns were built around my stewardship and what I was able to accomplish in office. In 2019, for instance, I presented my record of service to the people and asked them to judge me based on my performance,” he said.

Akinyelure cited his empowerment initiatives as part of the records he intends to present to voters, saying he provided vehicles to about 150 people in his constituency during his first term in the Senate, when the constituency budget was approximately N221 million annually.

“These are part of the records that we will present to the people as we commence this campaign,” he said.

The former lawmaker, who served in the 7th and 9th National Assemblies, said he was returning to seek another mandate because he believed more could still be done to improve the welfare and economic opportunities of constituents.

“I am not returning to the political arena to promote bitterness or division. I am returning because I believe there is still more work to be done and more people to empower.

“My commitment remains the same: to use public office as an instrument for service, employment generation, economic empowerment and improved welfare for our people,” he said. Akinyelure expressed appreciation to the people of Ondo Central for their continued confidence and support over the years.

He urged his supporters to respect every political opponent and avoid actions capable of heating the political atmosphere.

“Our people deserve a campaign that gives them hope and presents credible solutions to their challenges.

“Together, let us build a campaign that respects our people, protects our communities and puts the future of Ondo Central above personal ambition,” he said. (The Nation)