Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has suspended her ambition to contest the 2027 Ogun State governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC). She congratulated Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, after the party adopted him as its consensus candidate.
The announcement came swiftly after an APC strategic caucus meeting on April 12 at the party secretariat in Abeokuta, presided over by Ogun APC Chairman Chief Yemi Sanusi. Governor Dapo Abiodun revealed Yayi's selection, sparking jubilation among party members who chanted his name in support.
In a personal statement released on April 13, Iyabo expressed gratitude to supporters and APC leaders. "I thank the party for the opportunity and my supporters for their steadfast backing," she said. "We move forward with patience, strength, and hope, prioritising party unity."
Iyabo had unveiled her governorship bid in late February, hailing President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms while stirring political waters in Ogun State. Her decision to step down underscores the APC's push for unity ahead of the 2027 polls.
Yayi, the Senator representing Ogun West, emerged as the consensus choice to address the zone's long absence from the governorship since the state's creation in 1976. Accepting the nod, he pledged continuity. "I will maintain unity, peace, and progress on the foundation laid by Governor Abiodun. We will not derail the ship," Yayi vowed.
Governor Abiodun explained the process, noting Yayi's selection followed consultations to present a united front. The move has quelled potential primaries rancour, positioning the APC strongly against opposition challengers.