By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

The National Vice Chairman (South-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Isaacs Kekemeke, has formally declared his intention to contest the Ondo South Senatorial seat, pledging to offer humble, responsible and people-centred representation if elected.

Kekemeke, a former Secretary to the Ondo State Government and Attorney General, said his decision followed sustained pressure from party leaders, women and youth groups across the senatorial district who urged him to step forward and serve.

He described the calls as overwhelming and unusual, noting that months of reflection and consultations with political associates, family members and stakeholders convinced him to heed what he termed a “historic call to service.”

“The more I tried to ignore the calls, the louder they became,” he said, adding that those encouraging him expressed confidence in his competence, integrity and capacity to deliver effective representation.

The APC chieftain outlined his extensive political experience, which includes serving as Minority Leader in the old Ondo State House of Assembly, Commissioner for Justice, Commissioner for Works, Lands and Housing, and later as Secretary to the State Government.

He also served as APC State Chairman, where he played a key role in building the party’s structure in the state, before emerging as the party’s National Vice Chairman (South-West), a position he currently occupies.

Kekemeke said his aspiration is anchored on building a broad-based coalition that reflects the diverse interests of Ondo South and ensures that governance at the federal level becomes more responsive to the needs of the people.

Following consultations with the Ondo State Governor and other party leaders, he said he had resolved to seek the APC ticket for the senatorial election.

“This then is my declaration: after due consultation with the governor and other leaders, I have decided to take up the gauntlet,” he stated.

He promised that if elected, he would provide “fair, fearless and quality representation,” stressing that his legislative agenda would prioritise the needs and aspirations of the people of Ondo South and the state at large.

“I shall be a strong voice for Ondo South, Ondo State, its government and its people, and I will do so with humility and a high sense of duty and responsibility. My watchword shall be ‘The People First,’” he added.

Reflecting on his earlier political journey, Kekemeke recalled that in 2002 he had the opportunity to contest for the same senatorial seat but stepped down in favour of the late Senator H.O. Ehinlanwo, despite pressure to proceed to a run-off.

He said the renewed call for him to contest, particularly over the past four months, had been driven by grassroots mobilisation, including volunteer groups formed without his prior consent.

According to him, the widespread support has reinforced his belief that a new coalition of purpose can be built to advance the interests of Ondo South at the national level.

Kekemeke called on constituents to support his bid, assuring them of visible and impactful representation in Abuja.

“I am ready to serve again, if our people will send me,” he said, urging the people of the district to remain steadfast in their quest for tangible and effective representation at the National Assembly.