Ogun Monarch Endorses Iyabo Obasanjo's 2027 Governorship Ambition, Highlights Constitutional Rights
The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has publicly affirmed that Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, possesses the full constitutional right to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state. This declaration came after a private visit by Obasanjo to the monarch's palace on February 20, where he emphasized that her political ambition is a civil right enshrined under Nigeria's constitution.
Monarch Praises Women's Leadership and Historical Legacy
Oba Akinyemi described Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo as "a woman of substance with the pedigree and capacity to govern the state." He called for increased inclusion of women in political leadership, noting Ogun State's rich history of producing accomplished female figures. "Whatever affects Ogun State affects Nigeria. If you look at the great women we have produced—the likes of Efunsetan Aniwura and Efunyela Tinubu—and even in contemporary times, you will see that Ogun is blessed with exceptional women," he stated. The monarch also cited the state's Chief Judge, Mosunmola Dipeolu, as a symbol of excellence and pride.
Obasanjo's Professional and Political Background
Recalling her tenure as Commissioner for Health from 2003 to 2007 and later as a senator from 2007 to 2011, Oba Akinyemi commended Obasanjo's philanthropic efforts through the Iyanuwura Foundation. "The activities of the Iyanuwura Foundation are still fresh in our memory. She built human capacity across the state. She is a doctor by profession and a philanthropist. These are things that make us proud," he explained. Her foundation has significantly contributed to human development in Ogun State, enhancing her credentials for leadership.
Call for Gender Equality in Political Space
The monarch urged men to reconsider the limited political opportunities historically available to women. "If somebody like her is willing to take the shot, we men should have a rethink and give women more room than we have been giving them. They will not see us as chauvinists," he added. Drawing parallels with global democratic systems, he highlighted that Western nations do not restrict women from top political offices, citing examples of female prime ministers and the near-election of Kamala Harris as U.S. president.
Clarification on Visit and Political Cooperation
Oba Akinyemi clarified that Obasanjo's visit was strictly private and not for royal endorsement. "She did not come for royal blessing. It was a private visit. At the appropriate time, she knows the appropriate place to go," he explained. He also emphasized the need for political cooperation across Ogun's senatorial districts, noting that aspirants from Ogun West have been engaging with stakeholders in Ogun Central and other zones to foster unity.
Obasanjo's Declaration and Political Journey
Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, who recently registered with the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially declared her intention to run for the 2027 governorship seat. In an interview with Nigerian legend Segun Odegbami on Eagle7 Sports Radio, she ruled out returning to the Senate, stating, "The only thing I'll come back to do is the governorship. And we have started that journey. We are going to see it through." Her announcement marks a significant return to active politics after approximately 15 years away from the political scene, accompanied during the palace visit by APC chieftain Pastor Abiodun Ajayi and Engr. Chief Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, the Bada of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta.
This development underscores the ongoing discussions about women's roles in Nigerian politics and the constitutional rights of candidates, setting the stage for a potentially transformative election in Ogun State come 2027.
