2027 Elections: Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello’s Billboards Spark Speculation About Political Comeback in Abeokuta

A wave of speculation has erupted in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, following the appearance of billboards featuring former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s daughter, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello.

The billboards have fueled debates about whether Iyabo, who has been largely absent from the political scene for 14 years, is planning a return to politics.

Senator Iyabo represented Ogun Central Senatorial District from 2007 to 2011 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) but relocated to the United States after losing her re-election bid to Senator Gbenga Obadara of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), now APC. During her hiatus, she earned a Ph.D., earning her the title of Professor, and continued her work as a veterinarian, epidemiologist, and academician.

The billboards, which have appeared across key areas of Abeokuta including Leme/Abiola Way, Quarry Road, and Onikolobo, feature the inscription: “In Ogun State, we know ourselves. Senator Professor Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, Omo wa ni, Eniyan wa ni, Ara wa ni.” The subtle messaging has left political watchers wondering if she is quietly positioning herself for the upcoming governorship race.

Opinions remain divided: some speculate she may contest for the governorship under the newly formed African Democratic Congress (ADC), others believe she could return to the PDP, while a few suggest she might be aiming to reclaim a seat in the Senate in 2027.

Regardless, Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello’s billboards have undeniably reignited discussions about her political future in Ogun State.