The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, says Senator Iyabo Obasanjo has a constitutional right to contest the 2027 Ogun State governorship election and describes her professional background and public service record in comments following her private visit to his palace.
Senator Obasanjo is the daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and has previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health (2003–2007) and as a Senator of the Federal Republic (2007–2011).
Her recent return to active politics included registration with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and her declaration of interest in the governorship race.
The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom hosted Obasanjo during what he described as a private visit to his palace in Yewa North. The monarch spoke to journalists on Saturday about the visit and Ogun State politics.
Oba Akinyemi said in remarks that Obasanjo’s participation in the governorship contest is within her rights as a Nigerian citizen under the constitution.
He noted her career history, including her professional identity as a medical doctor and her philanthropic work through the Iyanuwura Foundation, which he said contributed to human capacity development in the state.
The traditional ruler also highlighted the achievements of other women from Ogun State, citing historical figures such as Efunsetan Aniwura and Efunyela Tinubu, along with contemporary leaders like the Ogun State Chief Judge, Mosunmola Dipeolu, as examples of accomplished women from the state.
Oba Akinyemi spoke about the need for broader inclusion of women in political leadership and referenced examples from Western democracies where women occupy top executive positions. He emphasised that women should not be discouraged from contesting public office.
While addressing reporters, the monarch clarified that Senator Obasanjo’s visit was not for a formal royal endorsement of her political ambition but a private engagement.
He said she would pursue formal campaign engagements at the appropriate time.
Also present during the visit were Pastor Abiodun Ajayi, a chieftain of the APC, and Engr. Chief Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, the Bada of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta.
Oba Akinyemi’s comments recognise Senator Obasanjo’s legal right to participate in the 2027 governorship contest and underscore ongoing discussions about women’s participation in Nigerian politics.
His remarks may influence public understanding of gender representation and political rights in the lead‑up to the election.
The recognition of Obasanjo’s public service experience and community work may form part of broader public discourse about candidates’ backgrounds ahead of the Ogun State poll.
