Iyabo Obasanjo Supports Consensus Approach For 2027 Candidate Selection

Former Senator representing Ogun Central, Iyabo Obasanjo, has voiced her support for using consensus in selecting candidates for political offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the method as a means to produce credible and electable leaders.

Obasanjo, who is vying for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Ogun State, made the remarks on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily. She dismissed concerns that the consensus system might lead to the imposition of unpopular candidates, emphasizing that it does not exclude the views of party members or the electorate.

“I believe consensus can bring the right candidates because it does not mean leadership ignores the will of the people; it means they consider what the people are saying,” Obasanjo stated. She noted that political parties typically adopt consensus with electoral realities in mind, as no party seeks to field candidates who might jeopardize their chances of winning.

Obasanjo expressed confidence that the consensus process could favour her in the race for the APC governorship ticket, citing her popularity and previous public service experience. She highlighted that the resources she earned while serving as a senator were directed toward developmental projects for her constituents.

Earlier this month, during an appearance on The Morning Brief, the 59-year-old politician reiterated her confidence in contesting the 2027 governorship race, describing herself as a strong contender. Having recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, Obasanjo also spoke on the support she expects from her parents, noting, “I am almost 60; I consider myself lucky to have both my mother and father alive. I know they will vote for me; that’s all I can ask of them.”

The renewed discussion on consensus follows amendments to Nigeria’s Electoral Act, which now permits only two methods for candidate selection: direct primaries and consensus, removing the previously used option of indirect primaries.