2027: Groups Back Tinubu’s Re-election, Ex-Envoy Ishola for Ogun Governorship

By Abah Margaret

Not fewer than 11 socio-political groups have declared support for the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the 2027 Ogun State governorship ambition of former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Ishola.

The endorsement was made on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Abeokuta, where the groups described Tinubu as a courageous leader committed to repositioning the nation’s economy. They said his policies and infrastructural drive warrant another four-year mandate.

The groups also hailed Ishola as a proactive and experienced administrator, noting his previous roles as Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Secretary to the Ogun State Government (2003–2007), and former Chairman of Abeokuta Local Government.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Olawale Durojaiye of Good Governance Advocate described Ishola as a God-fearing and well-grounded politician with the capacity to lead Ogun State to greater heights.

“We believe Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola possesses the experience and leadership qualities needed to transform our dear state. That is why we are urging the people to support his emergence as the next governor,” he said.

Durojaiye also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying Nigerians were already witnessing efforts aimed at national recovery.

Similarly, the Coordinator of Ogun Central Group, Akeem Ademolake, called on residents of the state to rally behind both Tinubu and Ishola.

“We have a leader with listening ears in Ishola. He understands governance and has the capacity to deliver. At the national level, President Tinubu has taken bold steps to recalibrate the economy and restore hope. Supporting his re-election will ensure continuity,” he stated.

An APC chieftain and former Chairman of the PDP in Ogun State, Chief Joju Fadairo, also threw his weight behind Ishola, describing him as a people-oriented politician.

Fadairo disclosed that prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, had been informed about Ishola’s ambition.

He noted that the growing number of support groups across the state reflected increasing acceptance of the former envoy and urged stakeholders to sustain mobilisation efforts.

In his remarks, Ishola clarified that the gathering was not a formal declaration of his governorship bid but a platform for consultation and endorsement.

“We are not here for a declaration. When the time comes, it will be done appropriately. What we are doing now is harmonisation,” he said.

He expressed concern over persistent political divisions in Ogun State, warning that hostile transitions between administrations have hindered development.

“My priority is to end political hostility and promote unity so Ogun State can achieve its full potential,” he added.

Ishola further reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu, noting that his experience as envoy to the UK positioned him to promote Nigeria’s policies to international investors.

“With the bold reforms already yielding results, returning President Tinubu for another term in 2027 will consolidate the country’s economic recovery,” he said.