Daughter of former Nigerian President and political figure, Iyabo Obasanjo, has disclosed that groups and community stakeholders persuaded her to contest the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, urging her to replicate and expand on her earlier developmental achievements.

She made the revelation on Tuesday while speaking at the 2026 Ramadan Lecture organised by the Ogun State chapter of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN). The event, themed “Fasting Beyond Hunger: Sustaining Hope and Integrity in an Era of Economic Inflation,” was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta.

Obasanjo explained that community members reminded her of the positive impact she made when she served as Commissioner for Health in the state, arguing that she could deliver greater developmental benefits if elected governor.

According to her, the calls to contest were not driven by personal ambition or popularity but by public demand and a sense of responsibility.

“People like you came to me and said they want me to repeat the good things I did before in order to do more. They said I was given a small position in the past and I did well, so they want me to do more by accepting the big position and be the state governor. Initially, I ignored, but when I came back home, people were reminding me what I have done for them, and I later accepted the offer when I saw that it is God that sent them to approach me,” she stated.

She emphasised that her decision to join the race was grounded in service rather than political gamesmanship, insisting that her established reputation both locally and internationally would work in her favour.

“My declaration is not for popularity or playing games like some others. I am a well-known personality anywhere I go across the globe. This journey is going to be positive, and I will win the election. You all know what I did when I was commissioner, and I will do more than your expectations when I become governor,” she added.

Obasanjo further pledged that her administration would be inclusive and non-discriminatory, ensuring that no resident of the state would be excluded on the basis of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

“By the grace of God, my governance would be inclusive, irrespective of religion, ethnicity and political affiliation,” she concluded.

Her remarks add to growing political realignments in Ogun State as aspirants and stakeholders position themselves ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. Political observers say the contest is likely to shape the future direction of governance and development in the state.