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Consensus: Iyabo Obasanjo seeks fairness in Ogun APC power shift

From The Punch · (11h ago) English Mixed tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Senator Iyabo Obasanjo advocates for fairness and inclusivity in the All Progressives Congress's (APC) consensus arrangement for selecting a governorship candidate.
  • She emphasized her commitment to the consensus outcome but highlighted the need to recognize party members who sacrificed their ambitions.
  • Obasanjo also reported alleged maltreatment of her supporters during a party caucus meeting, stressing that unity requires a sense of belonging for all.

This report from The Punch (Nigeria) focuses on Senator Iyabo Obasanjo's call for a more equitable approach within the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the selection of its governorship candidate in Ogun State. Her statement emphasizes the importance of consensus while cautioning against its implementation in a way that marginalizes party faithful.

I made it clear that I would abide by the outcome of any consensus arrangement, regardless of its direction, and I have remained true to that commitment.

— Senator Iyabo ObasanjoObasanjo stated her commitment to the party's consensus decision-making process.

Obasanjo, a former governorship aspirant herself, articulates a nuanced position. She affirms her adherence to the consensus decision, having congratulated the chosen candidate, Senator Solomon Adeola. However, she stresses that the process should not overlook the contributions and sacrifices of other aspirants who stepped down to ensure party cohesion.

On the day of the meeting, some of my supporters were denied entry and, regrettably, two were physically assaulted by a party functionary. While I chose not to escalate the situation in the interest of party unity, the incident required medical attention for those affected.

— Senator Iyabo ObasanjoObasanjo described alleged violence against her supporters during an APC caucus meeting.

The article also brings to light concerning incidents of alleged maltreatment of Obasanjo's supporters during the APC caucus meeting. This detail, coupled with her observation that she and another prominent figure, Dr. Tunde Lemo, were not acknowledged, points to potential internal friction and a lack of inclusivity within the party's decision-making processes.

if consensus is meant to promote unity and oneness, it must be pursued in a manner that encourages inclusivity and gives everyone a sense of belonging.

— Senator Iyabo ObasanjoObasanjo argued that the consensus process should foster inclusivity.

From a Nigerian political perspective, such internal party dynamics are crucial. The emphasis on fairness, recognition, and a sense of belonging is vital for maintaining party unity and ensuring electoral success, especially in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. Obasanjo's continued loyalty to the party and commitment to achieving victory for the APC candidates, despite her reservations, underscores the complex balancing act politicians often perform.

On the day of the meeting, some of my supporters were denied entry and, regrettably, two were physically assaulted by a party functionary. While I chose not to escalate the situation in the interest of party unity, the incident required medical attention for those affected. Such occurrences do n

— Senator Iyabo ObasanjoObasanjo detailed the alleged maltreatment of her supporters during the APC caucus meeting.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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