Former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo has officially joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, marking a significant political realignment after her resignation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The event took place on Wednesday at the PDP secretariat in Abeokuta, where she was formally received with a massive rally and presented with the party’s flag as its candidate for the Senate in Ogun Central. Her move comes after she lost the APC governorship ticket and accused the party leadership of disrespect, betrayal, and unfair treatment, leading to her exit on May 31.
Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, previously represented Ogun Central in the Senate from 2007 to 2011. After losing her re-election bid in 2011, she left Nigeria to pursue academic work in the United States, where she spent 15 years before returning to active politics in January. Her return to Nigerian politics was marked by her joining the APC and declaring her ambition to contest for the governorship of Ogun State. However, her political journey within the APC was short-lived due to the internal challenges she faced.
At the reception ceremony, Dr. Abayomi Tella, the State Chairman of the PDP, welcomed her back to the party and officially handed over the PDP flag. Speaking on behalf of the National Chairman, Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed, and the National Working Committee, Tella declared Obasanjo as the party’s candidate for the Senate in Ogun Central. He emphasized her stature and experience, reinforcing the party’s confidence in her leadership and commitment to public service.
In her acceptance speech, Senator Obasanjo took the party’s oath, pledging loyalty to the PDP’s constitution, manifesto, and code of conduct. She vowed to serve the people of Ogun State and Nigeria with integrity, humility, and dedication, placing their welfare above personal or sectional interests. She also asserted her strength as a candidate, stating that she remains the best senator to have represented Ogun Central and the candidate to beat in the next election.
While the focus was on Obasanjo’s return, another political figure, Oladipupo Adebutu, also made a strong statement during the event. He pledged that if elected governor, his administration would ensure local government autonomy and the timely release of funds to local councils. He emphasized transparency and accountability in public finance, declaring, “I, Oladipupo, son of Adebutu, won’t steal your money. Local governments will get their funds accordingly, and we shall be transparent in all our dealings.”
The political landscape in Ogun State continues to shift as new alliances form and candidates position themselves for the upcoming elections. The return of Iyabo Obasanjo to the PDP adds a dynamic element to the race, bringing experience, national recognition, and a strong base of support to the party’s campaign. Her candidacy is expected to energize the PDP’s efforts in Ogun Central and beyond.
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