Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello Breaks Silence: “I’m Not Contesting in 2027”

Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, former Senator representing Ogun Central and daughter of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, has unequivocally denied reports suggesting she plans to contest in the 2027 general elections.

Speculation soared in November after the Ogun State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) openly invited her to vie for office under its platform. Her appearance on campaign-style billboards across the state further intensified the rumours. One billboard boldly read: “In Ogun State, we know ourselves. Senator (Prof) Iyabo Obasanjo. Omo wa ni, eniyan wa ni, ara wa ni.”

However, in an interview with Remo TV, the US-based professor, epidemiologist and former lawmaker maintained that she is not involved in any political mobilisation.

“There are people who worked with me in the past who say they support me. At first, I told them to stop because I have a good life. I live in the US, I teach at a university, and I have the life I want,” she said.

Obasanjo-Bello, who also served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health under former Governor Gbenga Daniel between 2003 and 2007, explained that she eventually chose not to discourage the groups rallying around her.

“Some people said they’re not asking me for money. They just want permission to support me. They say it’s a sign of love and appreciation. If you tell them to stop, it feels like you’re dampening their enthusiasm. So I let them continue,” she added.

She insisted she has made no move towards running for office.

“Nobody can say I’m actively campaigning. I haven’t done anything. They are the ones moving on, and I simply allowed them to do what they want,” she noted.

Addressing why many Nigerians still call for her return to public service, Obasanjo-Bello attributed it to her longstanding commitment to excellence and mentorship.

“The reason people want me back is also what I’m doing in teaching. I like helping people do better. There are several people in Ogun State whose lives I’ve guided, and they appreciate it,” she said.

Urging Nigerians to uphold integrity, she added: “If you do good, people will see it, and they will come back and say, ‘We want you for something.’”