Iyabo Obasanjo, the daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former senator, has officially announced her candidacy for the Ogun State governorship election. She expressed optimism about her prospects, notwithstanding certain structural and financial challenges she faces.
During an interview on Wednesday with Eagle 102.5 FM’s Frontline program in Ilese-Ijebu, she expressed her belief in her chances of winning.
Ms. Obasanjo has recently re-entered the political arena after a 15-year hiatus and has joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). She is now pursuing the party's nomination for the governorship candidacy, according to reports from Tribune online.
The governorship aspirant indicated that her motivation for running is linked to the notable governance gaps within Ogun State and her ambition to enhance living standards for the citizens.
She stated that her commitment to public service has deep roots in her personal convictions. If elected, she hopes her administration would make a meaningful impact on the lives of residents, whether directly or indirectly.
"The office of governor aligns with the skill set I possess. I aim to enhance your lives in various ways when I assume the position," she remarked.
Amid discussions of renewed demands for power rotation to Ogun West, which has yet to have a governor since its establishment in 1976, Ms. Obasanjo addressed these concerns. While acknowledging the apprehensions expressed by stakeholders from Ogun West, she asserted that zoning is not legally mandated.
She dismissed the notion that Ogun Central should face blame for Ogun West’s lack of representation at the governorship level, pointing out that Ogun East has seen more governors emerge than Ogun Central. Additionally, she recalled her past political support for candidates from Ogun West, including the late General Tunji Olurin, a former PDP candidate, emphasizing that such efforts ultimately did not result in victory.
In contrast, Ogun Central is home to two former governors, Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun, while Ogun East experienced governance under Bisi Onabanjo, Gbenga Daniel, and the current governor, Dapo Abiodun.
Remarkably, Ms. Obasanjo asserted that Ogun West has not produced any governors in over 50 years since the formation of the state.
She reflected on why Ogun West has remained without a governor and asserted, "The absence of a governor from Ogun West cannot be attributed to Ogun Central. We have had three governors from Ogun East. As for Central, the two we had did not impact the outcome for the West. I personally supported General Olurin when he was the PDP candidate; I campaigned with him, but it did not yield results."
Nevertheless, she promised to advocate for the election of a governor from Ogun West after her own term.
"I know what must be done to ensure that my successor will be from the West. I am ambitious and confident that I will win, thereby paving the way for the next governor from Ogun West," she stated.
Regarding challenges, Ms. Obasanjo noted that her late entry into the race and limited financial resources are significant obstacles but believes that character outweighs monetary influence in elections. She expressed confidence in securing the APC nomination, asserting that the election terrain remains competitive.
"I've entered the race later than expected and face some disadvantages, but I'm confident that integrity rather than money will win votes in Ogun State," she emphasised.
In a critical reflection on her former party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ms. Obasanjo characterised its leadership as misaligned with its members and overly focused on transactional relationships.
She accused PDP leaders of failing to foster connections outside the electoral cycle, stating that outreach only occurred during election periods, thus highlighting a significant organizational flaw within the party.
Expressing her frustration, she remarked, "If elections hinge on personal connections, failing to engage prominent party figures undermines your chances of winning. This mindset exemplifies their shortsightedness."
Ms. Obasanjo clarified that her defection to the APC was her decision and not due to external pressures. She also mentioned her previous hesitance to shift allegiance while her father maintained ties with the PDP. Now that her transition is official, she identifies as politically independent and concentrated on her new political platform.
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