Arise Eyes Senate Comeback for Ekiti North, Cites FUOYE Impact, Rejects Consensus Arrangement
Njideka Ozoalor
Former Senator Ayo Arise has declared his intention to return to the Senate to represent Ekiti North Senatorial District, saying renewed calls from constituents—who recall his performance between 2007 and 2011—motivated his decision.
Speaking on his ambition, Arise said his bid is rooted in what he described as a growing sense of nostalgia among residents for his previous tenure and the projects executed during that period.
“It is about the people first,” he said, noting that it is not uncommon for lawmakers to return to office after a break in service. According to him, many in Ekiti North still identify with his contributions while in the Senate.
A key highlight of his record, he said, is the establishment of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), which he credited with significantly driving development across the district.
“Among the achievements is the Federal University Oye Ekiti, which has now spread across almost the entire senatorial district,” Arise stated.
He explained that the university’s multi-campus structure has expanded access to education while stimulating commerce and infrastructural growth in several communities.
According to him, successive administrations of the institution have extended opportunities to most parts of Ekiti North, though he acknowledged that a few local government areas are yet to benefit fully.
“Those areas have been reaching out to me to intervene with the university management so they can also benefit,” he said, adding that he still has more to offer in advancing the district’s development.
Arise further highlighted the economic impact of FUOYE since its establishment, noting a significant rise in population, commercial activities, and property values.
“The university has grown to about 60,000 students since 2012. There has been a noticeable increase in population, buying power, and the value of landed property,” he said.
On the political process, Arise rejected any attempt to impose candidates through consensus arrangements, insisting that the electorate should determine who represents them.
“Let the people decide who can best represent them,” he said, warning against manipulation of the electoral process.“If those in power want to keep our people in underdevelopment, they may attempt to manipulate the system, but we will not allow that to happen. We are prepared to deploy technology to ensure transparency,” he added.
He maintained that his political ambition is driven by a desire to improve the lives of his constituents, stressing that he would otherwise focus on his private business if he had no value to add.
Arise also urged political leaders in the state to uphold integrity and avoid actions that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
Addressing arguments about zoning the senatorial seat away from Oye Local Government, Arise described such claims as historically inaccurate.
“Those making such arguments do not understand the history of representation in Ekiti North,” he said.
He explained that his federal constituency has only held the Senate seat for four years, while another constituency has dominated representation for over two decades.
Arise emphasized the need for Ekiti North to produce a ranking senator who can effectively advocate for the district’s interests at the national level.
“We do not want to be shortchanged in the Senate. Experience and ranking matter in determining influence and benefits for constituents,” he said.
Expressing confidence in his chances, Arise added: “I am not afraid. I believe I have earned the right to return and continue serving my people.”
