Stakeholders Rally Behind Former Nigerian UK High Commissioner for Ogun Governorship
In a significant political development, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sharafa Tunji Ishola, has received a major endorsement from various support groups across Ogun State for the upcoming 2027 governorship race. The gathering, which took place yesterday, brought together grassroots politicians, residents, and traditional leaders from all three senatorial districts of the state, aiming to unify political structures backing Ishola's ambition.
Call for Unity and End to Hostile Succession
Speaking at the event, Ishola emphasized that his primary concern extends beyond personal political aspirations. He expressed deep concern over the political divisions among the state's elite, which he believes are hindering Ogun's development. Ishola insisted that the narrative of hostile succession must cease if the state is to realize its full potential. He stressed the critical need for unity among political actors across local governments, highlighting that cohesion and strategic alignment are essential to achieving collective goals.
"We are not here for any governorship declaration. What we have come to do is harmonize our positions and formalize our endorsement. The declaration will come at the appropriate time," Ishola stated. He added, "We are too politically divided, and we always have hostile succession. From one administration to another, it has always been a tug of war. Are we going to continue like this? My concern is to stop hostile succession in Ogun State so that we can all come together for Ogun to realize its potential, and I am still pursuing that course till date."
Consolidation of Support and Public Service Record
According to Ishola, the meeting was convened not for a formal declaration of governorship ambition but to consolidate support and strengthen internal coordination among his loyalists. Reflecting on his extensive public service record, he highlighted his experience at both state and federal levels. This includes his tenure as Secretary to the Ogun State Government and as Minister of Mines and Steel Development, as well as his diplomatic role as Nigeria's envoy to the United Kingdom.
Ishola asserted that his years in public service have adequately prepared him for higher responsibilities, and he reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development of Ogun State. Additionally, he used the occasion to express support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging attendees to back the President's re-election bid.
Backing from APC Chieftain and Elder Statesmen
Earlier in the event, All Progressives Congress (APC) Chieftain, Chief Joju Fadairo, disclosed that he had embarked on solidarity visits to political bigwigs and elder statesmen in the state, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to solicit support for Ishola's gubernatorial bid. Fadairo explained that his choice of Ishola is based on the former envoy's past record, personality, and achievements, particularly citing how Ishola successfully harmonized divided Nigerians in the United Kingdom during his diplomatic tenure.
This endorsement marks a pivotal moment in Ogun State's political landscape, as stakeholders rally behind a candidate focused on fostering unity and driving progress ahead of the 2027 elections.
