A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Dr. (Mrs.) Olamide Balikis Junaid, on Monday declared her intention to contest for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, pledging to deliver effective representation and align with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Junaid made the declaration at the Police Divisional Training Ground, Yemetu, Ibadan, where party members, supporters, and community leaders gathered to witness the formal unveiling of her ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the crowd, the aspirant said she was motivated by a deep commitment to serve her constituents and build on years of grassroots engagement and humanitarian efforts within the constituency.
“I am ready to represent my people. This is not just a political ambition, it is a call to serve and to do more for the people of Ibadan North,” she said.
Junaid, who emphasised her longstanding involvement in community support initiatives, noted that her declaration was a continuation of her service to the people, stressing that she had consistently provided assistance even before joining the race.
“Even before this declaration, I have been supporting our people in my own way. I understand their needs, their struggles, and their expectations. What I seek now is a bigger platform to do more,” she added.
Speaking on gender inclusion in politics, she dismissed concerns about her candidacy being influenced by gender bias, noting that leadership should be based on competence and service rather than stereotypes.
“Some people say I am a woman, but leadership is about capacity and compassion. Even at the highest level, we are seeing increasing support for women participation. I believe in what I can offer, and I am confident that my people will judge me by my ability to deliver,” she said.
The aspirant also declared her total support for President Bola Tinubu, pledging to mobilise votes and strengthen grassroots support for the President’s re-election bid in 2027.
“I am fully in support of President Tinubu’s second term. His Renewed Hope agenda is already setting the foundation for a better Nigeria, and we must consolidate on that progress. I will work tirelessly to ensure victory for our party and the President in the coming elections,” she stated.
Junaid further assured party stakeholders and constituents of inclusive representation, promising to prioritise youth empowerment, women development, and improved access to social and economic opportunities.
Party leaders at the event commended her courage and political ambition, describing her as a committed party member with the capacity to contribute meaningfully to legislative activities if elected.
