…. Posters Of Obasanjo’s Daughter Without Party Or Office Raise Questions
….Residents, Social Media Users Divided Over Possible Return To Ogun Politics
Daud Olatunji
A fresh wave of political suspense is sweeping through Ogun State following the sudden appearance of giant billboards featuring Senator (Prof.) Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, at strategic locations across Abeokuta.
The billboards, which have been spotted along Abiola Way, and Onikolobo, near the Macjob in Abeokuta, the state capital, display a bold image of the former senator but bear no indication of any political party or elective position.
Instead, the posters carry a cryptic inscription in Yoruba and English:
“In Ogun State, we know ourselves. Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo. Omowa ni (She is our child). Eniyan wa ni (She is our person). Ara wa ni (She is our neighbour).”
The minimalist message has sparked widespread speculation across the state — and online — about a possible political comeback by the former lawmaker, who represented Ogun Central Senatorial District under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) between 2007 and 2011.
Across social media platforms, especially Facebook, residents and political observers have been debating the motive behind the campaign-like posters.
While some see it as an early signal of a 2027 ambition, others describe it as a publicity stunt or an attempt to test the political temperature in the Gateway State.
A former journalist and former chairman of a local government in the state, commented, “It is getting more interesting. I’ve told my guys to be patient — others are still coming.”
Another user, Toks Adebamowo, speculated that Iyabo might be aligning with her father’s former party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC). “She’s likely heading to ADC, her father’s party,” he wrote.
Similarly, Olusola Onekunle said, “I guess she’s in ADC. I have never seen her at any APC functions or meetings.”
For Abiodun Shonubi, the move might be a subtle test of former President Obasanjo’s enduring political relevance in Ogun politics. “Nice to test Ebora’s political weight as a Yoruba leader,” he remarked, referencing Obasanjo’s popular moniker, Ebora Owu (the Spirit of Owu).
However, some respondents offered a more cynical take. Richard Adekunle Adegbesan described Nigeria’s political scene as “the theatre of the absurd,” adding, “This is a country where politicians have no ideology. You can join a party today and leave the next day if your ambition isn’t realised. Considering the pedigree of the lady, anything can happen. Never underestimate anybody in this country.”
Another resident, Lukman Lasisi, dismissed the speculation outright, saying, “Even if the old man himself comes out, can he match the political forces on ground?”
As of press time, neither Senator Iyabo Obasanjo nor any of her associates had commented on the billboards or confirmed any political intentions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Iyabo, a public health expert and former Ogun State Commissioner for Health, has largely stayed away from active politics in recent years.
Her sudden reappearance on Abeokuta billboards, however, has reignited public interest in the Obasanjo family’s potential role in shaping Ogun’s political direction once again.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, many in Ogun’s political circles will be watching closely — to see whether the mysterious posters mark a symbolic return or the quiet beginning of another Obasanjo-era political chapter.
As at the time of filing this report there are three persons believed to be eyeing the most coveted seat in the state in 2027.
Former ambassador of Nigeria is to the UK, Ambassador Sarafa Isola ; a member of House of representatives from Imeko-Afon/Yewa-North, Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka and a Senator representing Ogun west, Senator Olamilekan Adeola
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE