In politics, experience is not simply about how many times a person appears on a campaign platform. It is built through years of participation, public service, relationships and a deep understanding of the people and communities one seeks to represent.
This is where Hon. Moshood Olanrewaju Bakare stands out. He is not new to politics, and more importantly, he is not a stranger to the people of Ifelodun, Offa and Oyun.
Bakare’s political journey has taken him through different levels of public engagement. From his time as a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly, representing Omupo Constituency, to his experience working with Senator Bukola Saraki during his tenure as governor, he has gained practical exposure to governance, political organisation and grassroots mobilisation.
But beyond political experience, there is another factor that deserves attention: he is a genuine home boy.
His connection to the constituency is not something that begins and ends with an election cycle. His engagements across the communities have taken him to PDP leaders, traditional institutions, religious leaders, artisans, transport workers, market women, youths, professionals and ordinary residents.
From Igbaja to Share, Offa, Oyun and other communities, his continued consultations have provided opportunities to meet people directly, listen to their concerns and understand the issues affecting them.
His recent engagement in Igbaja, where he joined Engr. Sulyman Bolakale Kawu, Hon. Saheed Popoola, Rev. Cornelius Fawenu and other stakeholders to inspect damaged transformers, further reflects the nature of his ongoing community engagements. The visit came amid concerns that Igbaja and more than 60 surrounding communities have been without electricity for almost a year.
Beyond consultations, Bakare has also placed emphasis on issues including education, youth empowerment, rural development, security and economic opportunities. Through the Moshood Bakare Foundation, he has announced empowerment and educational initiatives targeted at people within the constituency.
For Bakare, politics is not a new terrain. His journey has been shaped by years of political participation, public service and direct engagement with the people. He understands the constituency not as an outsider seeking an opportunity, but as a genuine home boy who knows its communities, its people and the issues that matter to them.
As 2027 approaches, Bakare’s strength lies in this combination of experience, familiarity and grassroots connection. He is not coming to learn the constituency; he is coming with an understanding built over years of being part of its political and community life.