Former senator and governorship aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, has thrown her weight behind the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s consensus candidate in Ogun State, while cautioning party leaders against sidelining loyal members who stepped down in the interest of unity.
In a statement released on Thursday, Obasanjo reaffirmed her long-standing support for a consensus approach, describing it as a strategic tool to reduce internal friction and strengthen the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 elections. She noted that throughout her consultations before the primaries, she consistently advocated consensus and pledged to abide by its outcome.
True to her word, Obasanjo said she immediately congratulated the party’s chosen candidate, Senator Solomon Adeola, following the APC caucus meeting held on April 13, 2026, in Abeokuta, and subsequently suspended her governorship campaign.
However, the former lawmaker raised concerns about the process, warning that consensus must not come at the expense of fairness and inclusiveness. She stressed that aspirants who invested time, resources, and grassroots engagement deserved recognition for their contributions.
Obasanjo also alleged that the caucus meeting was marred by incidents of violence, claiming that some of her supporters were denied entry and physically assaulted, with at least two requiring medical attention. She described the development as inconsistent with the APC’s values of discipline and mutual respect.
In addition, she lamented what she termed selective recognition during the meeting, noting that while some aspirants from a particular senatorial district were acknowledged for stepping down, others—including herself and former Central Bank deputy governor Dr. Tunde Lemo—were overlooked despite their extensive statewide consultations.
“Consensus should foster unity, but it must also ensure that everyone feels valued and included,” she said, emphasizing that true cohesion goes beyond mere agreement.
Despite her reservations, Obasanjo reiterated her unwavering loyalty to the APC and pledged full support for Adeola’s candidacy, as well as for President Bola Tinubu and his administration.
She urged party leaders to adopt a more inclusive approach moving forward, one that acknowledges the efforts of all stakeholders and strengthens collective resolve ahead of the elections.
Drawing on Yoruba proverbs, Obasanjo underscored the importance of fairness and reciprocity in leadership, calling for a united front built on respect, recognition, and shared purpose as the party prepares for the next phase of its electoral journey.
