Unity will yield suitable nominees, according to Iyabo Obasanjo

Spearheading the endorsement of consensus as a candidate selection method for the 2027 general election is Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, who firmly believes this approach yields electable candidates rather than those lacking in popularity.

On Thursday, Obasanjo appeared on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, where she addressed concerns that consensus might overlook the preferences of party members, stressing that parties inevitably factor in popularity when choosing candidates.

According to Obasanjo, consensus does not imply that leadership disregards the will of the people, but rather that it takes into account the sentiments of the populace, as no party wants to risk losing an election by selecting an unpopular candidate.

She emphasized that parties are driven by the desire to win elections and therefore would not choose candidates lacking grassroots support, as this would jeopardize their chances of success.

Obasanjo expressed confidence that the consensus system would work in her favor, particularly as she seeks the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State.

Having recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, Obasanjo believes her track record in public office gives her a distinct advantage in the race.

She reiterated her conviction in her political strength, referencing her earlier remarks that she remains a formidable contender in the Ogun governorship contest.

In a previous appearance on Channels TV’s The Morning Brief, the 59-year-old politician expressed confidence that she would receive support from her parents, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Obasanjo stated that she does not need to consult her parents about every career move, but she is certain that they would vote for her, which is all she can ask of them.

The Electoral Act recognizes consensus and direct primaries as modes of candidate selection for political parties, a development that continues to influence internal party strategies ahead of the next general election.

The APC has confirmed that it will adopt the consensus approach for selecting its national leadership during the party’s convention scheduled for March 27–28, 2026, in Abuja, as reported by PUNCH Online.