ABEOKUTA: More than twenty support groups and political stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the 20 Local Government Areas of Ogun State have formally endorsed Ambassador Sarafa Isola as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in the state.
The event, which drew delegates from all three senatorial districts, was held in Abeokuta, the state capital, and also saw a unanimous show of support for the second-term bid of President Bola Tinubu.
According to stakeholders, Isola, a former High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom and former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, is uniquely qualified to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun, citing his wealth of experience in both local and federal governance.
Chief Joju Fadairo, a prominent party leader, recounted that he personally visited Isola in London during his tenure as High Commissioner to encourage him to consider running for governorship.
The push, he said, came at the request of notable sons and daughters of Ogun State who sought a leader capable of providing stability and continuity in governance.
Fadairo and other speakers highlighted Isola’s previous positions, including elected Local Government Chairman, Chairman of Chairmen of Local Governments in Ogun State, federal minister, member of the Federal Executive Council, and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
Of all the aspirants, his experience, both domestically and internationally, makes him exceptionally well-prepared to lead Ogun State into a new era of development,” Fadairo stated.
Speakers praised Isola’s record of compassion, public service, and commitment to the welfare of the people.
They noted that his leadership style combines administrative competence with a people-oriented approach, distinguishing him as a candidate capable of uniting the state and driving progress.
In his response, Isola expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to honor the trust of stakeholders.
I am humbled by the great support and encouragement I have received. I have consulted widely with key stakeholders and past governors, including Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and the incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun.
My focus has been on ensuring a peaceful and productive transition, avoiding the cycle of hostile succession that has historically hindered the state’s progress,” he said.
Isola further advised all governorship aspirants in Ogun State to eschew animosity and political desperation.
He emphasized that the endorsement event was a stakeholders’ engagement, not a formal declaration, stating: governorship declaration is made in the open, not in a hall like this. Despite the mammoth attendance, this is just a stakeholders’ engagement. The real declaration will come soon.”
His remarks were seen as an attempt to maintain harmony within the APC and prevent factionalism ahead of the 2027 election
At the national level, Isola praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, noting the introduction of policies and programs that have advanced Nigeria’s progress and prosperity. He called for a collective endorsement of the President for a second term, a motion that was unanimously supported by the stakeholders in attendance.
Political analysts note that Ogun APC’s coordinated support for Isola and Tinubu reflects a broader strategy to consolidate party influence at both state and federal levels. By rallying behind a consensus candidate with proven administrative experience and strong ties to the federal government, the APC aims to project unity and stability to voters.
The endorsement signals the start of Isola’s formal preparations for the governorship race, with the support of influential stakeholders across Ogun State providing a solid foundation. Observers expect him to continue engaging with party members, civil society groups, and the electorate in the coming months to build momentum.
As the state gears up for the 2027 governorship election, this early show of consensus and coordination within the APC could be a decisive factor, giving the party a strategic advantage over opposition parties.
Analysts also highlight that stakeholder engagement, as exemplified in this event, underscores the importance of dialogue, inclusiveness, and broad-based support in Nigerian politics.
