Former Ogun Central Senator Iyabo Obasanjo has voiced strong support for consensus in selecting candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
She argues this method ensures credible, electable leaders emerge, reducing internal party conflicts and promoting unity nationwide.
Obasanjo Backs Consensus for Electable Leaders
Obasanjo emphasized that consensus fosters experienced candidates capable of delivering effective governance and winning voter confidence decisively.
By adopting consensus now, parties can sidestep primaries’ divisiveness, positioning themselves strongly for electoral success in 2027.
Obasanjo, who is seeking the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, made this known on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.
The daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo dismissed concerns that consensus could impose unpopular candidates on political parties.
She argued the system promotes consultation among stakeholders, ensuring selected leaders reflect broad party support and aspirations.
Obasanjo: Proper Consensus Avoids Imposition, Gains Acceptance
Obasanjo stressed proper implementation prevents imposition, allowing genuine party consensus to produce candidates with widespread acceptance.
Dismissing fears, she highlighted consensus as a tool for unity, strengthening parties against opposition challenges in elections.
According to her, consensus does not imply that party leaders ignore the views of members or the electorate.
“I do believe that consensus can bring the right candidates because consensus does not mean that leadership ignores the will of the people; consensus means that they look at what the people are saying,” she said.
She added that political parties are usually guided by electoral realities when adopting a consensus.
Obasanjo stated, “No party wants to lose, so the party will not choose people that open them for a loss; does that make sense?
“So, the consensus is going to come towards people that can actually win on the ground, because at the end of the day, the party wants to win.”
Obasanjo expressed strong confidence that the consensus arrangement would ultimately work in her favor for the APC governorship ticket.
She believes party leaders recognize her experience, popularity, and track record as ideal for Ogun State’s leadership role.
Obasanjo Highlights Grassroots Support in Consensus Bid
The former senator highlighted her grassroots support and commitment to development, positioning her strongly within consensus deliberations.
Iyabo Obasanjo remains optimistic, trusting the process will reward merit and deliver her the nomination for the 2027 race.
The former senator cited her popularity and previous public service experience as factors that could strengthen her chances.
According to her, the resources she earned while serving as a senator were used to support developmental initiatives for her constituents.
Obasanjo Shares Governorship Views on Channels TV
In a recent Channels Television’s The Morning Brief appearance earlier this month, the 59-year-old politician shared her views.
She expressed firm confidence in her prospects for the 2027 Ogun State governorship race under APC platform.
The former senator outlined her vision for development, security, and economic growth to resonate with Ogun voters.
She described herself as a strong contender for the seat.
Obasanjo Expects Parental Backing After APC Defection
Iyabo Obasanjo, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, also spoke about the support she expects from her parents.
She further stated, “I am almost 60; I think that at this age, my friends who still have both parents alive are very few, so I consider myself lucky to have both my mother and my father alive.
“I don’t think at this age I should be consulting them for everything in my career move. What I have said is that my father, I know, and my mother will vote for me; that’s all that I can ask of them.”
“Even if I don’t ask, they will vote for me; that I can guarantee,” she added.
Electoral Act Fuels Consensus Selection Debate
The law now permits only two methods for selecting party candidates: direct primaries or carefully managed consensus.
This change aims to streamline processes, curb excessive spending, and promote internal party democracy nationwide effectively.
Stakeholders argue consensus fosters unity while direct primaries ensure broader participation in Nigeria’s evolving electoral landscape.
The option of indirect primaries, previously used by many political parties, has been removed under the new law.
