A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Iyabo Obasanjo, has declared that she can stand on her own politically without relying on the influence of her father, chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
She made this known on Saturday during a media parley organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists at the union’s secretariat in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
Addressing journalists, the former senator said her track record in public service speaks for her, adding that her achievements and familiarity with the people of Ogun State have earned her widespread acceptance.
“I can stand on my own in Ogun State; I am the best of the best. If I wanted to use my father’s influence, I would not have started as a commissioner or returned to Abeokuta, considering I was born and raised in Lagos,” she said.
She noted that her consistent presence and engagement in Abeokuta have helped her build strong grassroots connections.
According to her, relying on her father’s influence would have meant remaining in comfort rather than actively working to secure the party’s ticket.
“If you can remember, I have never used my father’s influence to get an appointment or elective position. I have worked for governorship and senatorial candidates, and my struggle speaks for me before the people of Ogun State,” she added.
The aspirant further highlighted her previous roles as Commissioner for Health and as the representative of Ogun Central in the National Assembly, stating that many beneficiaries of her service continue to acknowledge her contributions.
Speaking on her financial independence, Obasanjo stressed that her resources are self-earned and separate from her father’s wealth.
“I have worked for my own money. What I have is mine, not my father. I am educated and have achieved in my life,” she said.
The APC governorship aspirant made it clear that she is only interested in contesting for the governorship seat, dismissing speculations that she might settle for a lesser position.
“I am not interested in being a deputy governor. If I came into this race to be governor, I would just say no to anything less. I am not in this race for deputy governor or for a ministerial position,” she stated.
