ABEOKUTA — In a major realignment of the political landscape in Ogun State, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo has officially suspended her aspiration to contest the 2027 governorship election.
The daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo announced the development in a formal statement issued on Monday, citing the recent emergence of a consensus candidate within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the primary factor for her decision.
The Consensus Factor
The decision follows the high-level endorsement of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (popularly known as Yayi) as the party’s preferred choice to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun. The endorsement, which took place during a strategic APC caucus meeting in the state capital, appears to have consolidated the party’s support behind the Ogun West senator.
In her statement, Senator Obasanjo noted that her decision to step back was informed by this development, signaling a commitment to party unity and supremacy.
“I have decided to suspend my gubernatorial aspiration following the endorsement of Senator Solomon Adeola as the consensus candidate of our great party,” the statement read. She further expressed her gratitude to her supporters for their “unwavering trust” and offered her congratulations to Senator Adeola.
Strategic Shift
Political analysts view this move as a significant turning point in the race for the Oke-Mosan Government House. Obasanjo’s withdrawal effectively narrows the field and reduces the likelihood of a fractured primary within the APC.
Just days prior to this announcement, Senator Obasanjo had been seen engaging in high-profile consultations, including a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, which many had interpreted as a sign of her growing momentum.
Implications for 2027
With Obasanjo bowing to the party’s decision, the path for Senator Adeola—who currently represents Ogun West—seems increasingly clear. The APC leadership in the state has emphasized that the consensus arrangement is designed to ensure a seamless transition and maintain the party’s stronghold in the Gateway State.
As of Monday evening, other major aspirants have yet to officially react to the new party order, though sources suggest further “harmonization” meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks.
