Two serving senators from Kwara State, Oyelola Ashiru and Sadiq Suleiman Umar, have stepped down from their earlier governorship ambitions ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, opting instead to seek re-election to the Senate.

Both lawmakers, currently in their second term at the National Assembly, had recently declared interest in contesting the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.

However, findings indicate that the duo have now obtained expression of interest and nomination forms to contest for a third term in the Senate, suggesting a strategic shift in their political plans.

Sources within the party said the decision followed uncertainty surrounding their chances in the governorship race, prompting them to refocus on retaining their legislative seats.

Prior to the change, Umar’s ambition was reportedly backed by calls for power rotation to Kwara North, while Ashiru was believed to be leveraging his position as a principal officer in the Senate.

Umar also received endorsement from the Kwara APC Elder Caucus during a recent press briefing in Ilorin, where party leaders urged support for his candidacy.

In Kwara South, other aspirants who have obtained senatorial forms include Onijala Olutola John, Oluwasola Samuel Ajimati, and Muritala Olabanji Anolola.

Similarly, in Kwara North, contenders such as Mohammed M. Abubakar, Attahiru Abdulkadir Adamu, Taoheed Toyin, and Kareem Musa Mohammed have also picked forms to contest the seat.

The development underscores ongoing political realignments within the APC in Kwara State as the party prepares for its primary elections ahead of the 2027 polls.