Ogun 2027: Iyabo Obasanjo Insists She Can Succeed Without Her Father's Backing

Former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello has asserted that she does not require the backing of her father, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in her pursuit of the Ogun State governorship under the All Progressives Congress, as the 2027 general election approaches.

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She made this statement during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Friday, where she emphasized her independence at the age of 59, considering herself fortunate to still have both parents alive.

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Obasanjo-Bello expressed her belief that her parents would vote for her regardless of the circumstances, stating that she does not need to solicit their support, as they would naturally back her candidacy.

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She noted that her journey within the APC is a personal one, driven by her own ambitions, and that her parents' support is a given, whether she asks for it or not.

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Regarding her consistency in politics, Obasanjo-Bello explained that she had initially not intended to seek re-election after losing her Senate seat, and had even postponed a Harvard fellowship due to pressure from her supporters.

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She viewed her loss as a blessing in disguise, allowing her to step away from the pressures of politics and re-evaluate her path, ultimately leading her to re-enter the political arena with a renewed sense of purpose.

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Obasanjo-Bello's initial foray into politics was sparked by her excitement about grassroots campaigning, a novel experience for her given her upbringing during the military era.

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Her subsequent roles as Commissioner for Health in Ogun State and as a senator have provided a foundation for her current governorship bid, with many individuals in the state expressing gratitude for her past actions and offering their support.

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Obasanjo-Bello disclosed that her decades of work in the United States have yielded significant retirement savings, invested in the American stock market, which will form part of her campaign funding.

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She noted that the multiplier effect of long-term investments in the US stock market has resulted in a substantial nest egg, which she is willing to utilize for her campaign, supplementing it with contributions from individuals she has helped in the past.

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When questioned about the risk of channeling her savings into a potentially lost campaign, Obasanjo-Bello expressed confidence in her ability to recover, citing her remaining work life and savings.

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Regarding the party primary, she acknowledged that no candidate in Ogun State, including herself, has been guaranteed the APC ticket, but expressed confidence in her chances due to her track record and experience.

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Obasanjo-Bello welcomed the fact that at least one other woman has declared for the Ogun governorship, viewing this as a positive sign for women in Nigerian politics, particularly in light of the pending gender reserved seat bill before the National Assembly.