Iyabo Obasanjobello Returns to PDP After Resigning from APC
Iyabo Obasanjobello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) last week and formally rejoined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday. Her return was marked by a vibrant event at the party secretariat in Abeokuta, attended by numerous supporters and party leaders.
Senatorial Candidacy Affirmed
During the lively gathering, Dr. Abayomi Tera, the state chairman of the PDP, alongside other prominent party figures, presented Obasanjo with the party flag and officially declared her as the senatorial candidate for Ogun Central in the upcoming 2027 elections. Her procession through the main roads of Abeokuta was a notable spectacle, featuring the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Ladi Adebutu, along with a throng of supporters and PDP members.
Commitment to Party Ideals
At the event, Dr. Tera conveyed the backing of the PDP’s National Chairman, Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed, affirming Obasanjo’s new role within the party. Upon receiving the flag, Obasanjo took an oath, pledging her allegiance to the PDP’s constitution, manifesto, and code of conduct. “I am fully committed to the ideals of the PDP,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to serving the people of Ogun State and Nigeria with integrity and humility.
Concerns Over Party Dynamics
Previously, Obasanjo expressed her grievances regarding her treatment within the APC, citing “disrespect, betrayal, and mistreatment” from the party leadership. The former lawmaker, now 59, revealed that her decision to leave was based on feeling marginalized and treated unjustly. “They treated me like a child,” she remarked, reflecting on her interactions within the party during her time there.
Reasons for Joining APC and Subsequent Disillusionment
Obasanjo initially allied with the APC after being inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s respectful demeanor whenever they crossed paths. “When I re-entered politics after nearly two decades, I opted for the APC because of the respect I received from Mr. Tinubu,” she explained. Despite her efforts and contributions to the party, she felt sidelined in key decision-making processes, particularly in candidate selection and consensus building, leading to her eventual departure.
Prepared for the Upcoming Elections
Despite the challenges she faced in the APC, Obasanjo remains optimistic about her prospects in the forthcoming elections, positioning herself as a qualified candidate for Ogun Central. Her extensive political experience includes serving as a commissioner and senator, and she remains dedicated to advocating for her constituents moving forward.
PDP’s Vision for Governance
At the event, Ladi Adebutu, the PDP gubernatorial candidate, reiterated his commitment to transparency and responsible governance, promising full autonomy for local governments and meticulous management of public finances. “Our parents taught us well, and we aim to ensure that public funds are not misappropriated,” he asserted, emphasizing a culture of transparency in governance.
Return to Politics Following Absence
Obasanjo recently announced her return to active politics in January after registering as an APC member in Ogun State. However, after facing rejection and mistreatment, she submitted her resignation to the APC state chairman, citing a lack of respect from the party leadership. Having previously held significant roles in government, including as health commissioner and senator, she has remained relatively silent within the political arena until recently, with her re-emergence marked by campaign billboards across Abeokuta.
