Hon. Umar Farouk Arisekola-Alao, former Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State and a frontline aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has welcomed the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) setting Saturday, August 16, 2025, for the conduct of the by-election into the Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

INEC recently confirmed that by-elections would hold across affected constituencies to fill vacant seats in the National and State Assemblies arising from resignations, deaths, and court rulings.

Speaking in Ibadan shortly after the announcement, Arisekola-Alao described the decision as a necessary and timely step towards restoring full representation to the people of Ibadan North.

“This announcement by INEC is long overdue but certainly welcome. Our people have waited patiently, and I commend the Commission for finally setting a date for this important election.”

The APC aspirant, who has been engaging various segments of the constituency ahead of the poll, noted that the delays experienced since the unfortunate demise of the former representative, Hon Olaide Akinremi Jagaban, had left a gap in representation. He expressed optimism that the electoral process would now proceed smoothly and transparently.

The former Commissioner for Youth and Sport, further reiterated his preparedness to offer effective representation to the people of Ibadan North, drawing from his past experience in public service and his continued engagement with the community.

“I am fully prepared for the task ahead. My background in public service has given me a clear understanding of governance and the needs of our people. I am committed to providing responsible, responsive, and people-centered representation.”

As the APC prepares to present its candidate for the by-election, Hon Umar Farouk Arisekola-Alao urged party stakeholders and supporters to approach the process with unity and focus, while assuring residents of Ibadan North of his dedication to their progress and welfare.