APC Stakeholders in Ogun State Unite Behind Sarafa Isola for 2027 Governorship
In a significant political development, more than 21 support groups and key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from all 20 local government areas of Ogun State have officially endorsed Ambassador Sarafa Isola as their preferred candidate for the upcoming 2027 governorship election. The endorsement came during a major stakeholders' event held in Abeokuta, the state capital, which attracted delegates from the state's three senatorial districts and a substantial gathering of party members.
Unanimous Support for Isola's Candidacy
The stakeholders expressed strong confidence in Isola's qualifications, describing him as the most experienced and capable aspirant to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2027. Chief Joju Fadairo, a senior APC chieftain, revealed that he personally visited Isola in London during his tenure as Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom to persuade him to consider the governorship position, acting on the request of prominent sons and daughters of Ogun State.
Fadairo and other speakers at the event highlighted Isola's extensive governmental experience, which spans both local and federal levels. His distinguished career includes serving as an elected Local Government Chairman, Chairman of Chairmen of Local Governments in Ogun State, Minister of Mines and Steel Development, member of the Federal Executive Council, Secretary to the State Government, and most recently as Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
"His track record of compassion and service distinguishes him as a humane leader who truly understands the needs of the people," one speaker emphasized during the event.
Isola's Response and Vision for Ogun State
In his address to the stakeholders, Ambassador Isola expressed gratitude for their confidence and pledged to make Ogun State proud if elected governor. He disclosed that he had engaged in extensive consultations with past governors, including Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Isola focused these discussions on ending what he described as "hostile succession from one governor to another" that he believes has not served the state's best interests. He urged all governorship aspirants to avoid animosity and desperation, emphasizing the importance of unity and constructive engagement for the state's progress.
Importantly, Isola clarified that the event represented a stakeholders' engagement rather than a formal declaration of his governorship ambition. "A governorship declaration is made publicly, not in a hall. Despite today's mammoth attendance, this is a consultation and engagement; the formal declaration is coming soon," he stated.
Endorsement of President Tinubu's Second Term
At the national level, the stakeholders also expressed full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second-term bid. Isola praised the President's policies and programs, asserting that they have set Nigeria on a path of progress and prosperity. He proposed a resolution endorsing the President for a second term, which was unanimously adopted by all stakeholders present.
The event marks a crucial step in Ogun State's political landscape as preparations begin for the 2027 elections, with Isola emerging as a strong contender backed by substantial party support across the state.
