A traditional ruler in Ogun State has thrown his weight behind the governorship ambition of former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, using the opportunity to champion a significant increase in women's participation in the state's political landscape.
Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in the Yewa North Local Government Area, made his position known on Friday during a media interaction following a private visit by the aspirant to his palace.
Obasanjo has recently signified her intention to run for the state's highest office. This ambition follows her political realignment, having rejoined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
The monarch highlighted Ogun State's historic legacy of producing formidable and accomplished women, arguing that the state should confidently place leadership responsibilities in their hands. He pointed to historical icons like Efunsetan Anniwura and Efunyela Tinubu as early examples of this legacy.
"The fortunes of Ogun State are intertwined with those of Nigeria. A look at our history, from legendary figures like Efunsetan Anniwura to contemporary leaders, confirms that Ogun is extraordinarily blessed with remarkable women," Oba Akinyemi stated.
He also lauded current female achievers, citing the state's Chief Judge, Mosunmola Dipeolu, as a modern-day emblem of excellence that brings pride to the state.
The royal father specifically commended Obasanjo's credentials, recalling her previous roles as a Commissioner for Health and a Senator. He further praised her philanthropic efforts through the Iyanuwura Foundation, which he noted had a lasting impact on human capacity development across various communities in Ogun.
"The positive impact of the Iyanuwura Foundation remains unforgettable. She invested in building people across the state. Her background as a medical doctor and her generosity are sources of pride for us," the Oba remarked.
Oba Akinyemi issued a call to his fellow men to re-evaluate the traditionally restricted political space afforded to women. He questioned why a candidate of Obasanjo's caliber should be discouraged.
"When someone with her qualifications is prepared to step forward, it is time for men to reconsider their stance and create more opportunities for women. Doing so would prevent us from being labelled as chauvinists," he asserted.
Drawing parallels with established democracies in the West, the monarch observed that women face no constitutional or societal barriers to holding top political offices internationally. He referenced female prime ministers in Europe and the recent U.S. election where Kamala Harris came close to the presidency.
"In Western nations, no political position is off-limits to women. We cannot ask women to refrain from competing. Their participation is a positive and progressive development," he said.
The Eselu firmly stated that Obasanjo's gubernatorial pursuit is a fundamental right guaranteed by her Nigerian citizenship, irrespective of the eventual outcome.
"As traditional rulers, we cannot predict the future, but we must acknowledge her undeniable right to aspire to be governor. It is a matter of her civil liberty," he clarified.
However, the monarch was careful to note that the visit was a private affair and not a formal request for his royal endorsement. "Her visit was personal and not to seek royal blessings. She is well aware of the proper channels and the right time to seek that," he explained.
He also touched upon the need for political harmony across the state's three senatorial districts, observing that aspirants from Ogun West, like Obasanjo, are actively engaging with stakeholders in Ogun Central and other zones to build a collaborative front.
Obasanjo arrived at the palace with a delegation that included a prominent APC figure, Pastor Abiodun Ajayi, and Chief Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, the Bada of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta. While the meeting extended for several hours, Obasanjo departed without making any statements to the press.
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