No fewer than 11 socio-political groups have thrown their weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in 2027, while also endorsing former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Ishola, for the Ogun State governorship race.
The endorsement was announced during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Abeokuta on Tuesday, where the groups described Tinubu as a courageous leader driving economic recovery and infrastructural development across the country.
They also praised Ishola as an experienced and service-oriented politician, citing his track record as former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Secretary to the Ogun State Government, and ex-local government chairman.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Olawale Durojaiye of Good Governance Advocate said Ishola possesses the leadership qualities required to reposition Ogun State.
“We believe Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola is a well-grounded and experienced politician who has what it takes to move the state forward,” he said.
Durojaiye added that Tinubu’s economic reforms and infrastructure drive justify calls for his re-election in 2027.
Similarly, Coordinator of Ogun Central Group, Akeem Ademolake, urged residents to support both Tinubu’s second-term ambition and Ishola’s governorship bid, describing the former envoy as a leader with “listening ears” and proven governance capacity.
An APC chieftain, Joju Fadairo, who also coordinates Ishola’s campaign, revealed that key stakeholders, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Alake of Egbaland, Adedotun Gbadebo, had been informed of the ambition.
Fadairo noted that growing support groups across the state indicate increasing acceptance of Ishola’s candidacy and called for sustained mobilisation ahead of the चुनाव cycle.
Addressing the gathering, Ishola clarified that the event was not a formal declaration of his governorship ambition but rather a move to build consensus and unity among stakeholders.
“We are here for harmonisation and endorsement. Declaration will come at the appropriate time,” he said.
He lamented the persistent political divisions in Ogun State, warning that “hostile succession” between administrations has hindered development.
“My concern is to stop this cycle and ensure that Ogun realises its full potential through unity and continuity,” he added.
Ishola also reaffirmed his support for Tinubu, noting that his efforts while serving as ambassador helped promote Nigeria’s policies to foreign investors, with positive outcomes already emerging.
“With the courageous steps taken by President Tinubu, returning him for another term in 2027 will further consolidate Nigeria’s economic recovery,” he said.
