Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has denied rumours. These rumours suggested she would contest in the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the 2027 Election Rumours
Recall that the Ogun State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) invited her in November. They asked her to campaign under their platform for the upcoming elections. She also appeared on some billboards. These billboards endorsed her for the elections.
One billboard notably read, “In Ogun State, we know ourselves. Senator (Prof) Iyabo Obasanjo. Omo wa ni, eniyan wa ni, ara wa ni.” This translates to “She is our child, our person, our kin.”
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello is a former Senator. She represented the Ogun Central senatorial district from 2007 to 2011. She clarified her position during an interview with Remo TV. She stated she is not actively campaigning for a seat in the 2027 elections. This is despite numerous requests from various groups.
“Some people I have worked with in the past expressed their support,” she said. “They indicated their preference for me. Initially, I told them to stop. I have a good life. I live in the US. I teach at the university. I enjoy the life I have chosen.”
Permission Granted to Supporters
The US-based professor and epidemiologist received advice. She was told to let her supporters continue their efforts. She was advised not to caution them.
“Some individuals said they were not asking me for money or anything,” she explained. “They only wanted my permission to proceed. Everyone says this is a sign of love. It also shows that you have performed well. They added that stopping them would dampen their enthusiasm. So, I allowed them to continue.”
Obasanjo-Bello reaffirmed her non-involvement. “Nobody can say I am actively campaigning. I have not done anything personally. However, they are moving forward with their initiatives. I have simply given them permission to do whatever they feel is right. That is the extent of my involvement.”
The Philosophy of Good Deeds
Obasanjo-Bello previously served as the Ogun State Commissioner for Health. She held this position under former Governor Gbenga Daniel from 2003 to 2007. She encouraged the public to excel in their respective roles.
“The reason people desire my return aligns with my teaching philosophy,” she stated. “I enjoy helping people improve. I guide them in their lives. Many individuals in Ogun State have benefited from my assistance. They appreciate my contributions.”
She further added, “For me, it serves as an example for people to do good. This applies whether you are in politics or any other field. If you do good, people will notice. They will eventually seek your return for important roles.”