Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State on Tuesday endorsed the governorship ambition of Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola ahead of the 2027 election.

They also declared support for the second term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The endorsement was made at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Sir Kesington Adebutu Hall, Abeokuta Sports Club, Ibara GRA, Abeokuta.

The event had delegates from the three senatorial districts of the state. Speakers at the meeting said Sarafa has the experience required to lead the state.

An APC chieftain, Elder Joju Fadairo, said he visited Sarafa in London during his tenure as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and encouraged him to serve Ogun State as governor.

The stakeholders noted that Sarafa has served as a local government chairman, Secretary to the local government chairmen in Ogun State, minister, member of the Federal Executive Council and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

They said his experience in public service stands him out among other aspirants.

In his remarks, Sarafa thanked the stakeholders for their support and said he would justify their confidence if elected.

He said he had consulted widely with key stakeholders, including former governors Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun and the incumbent governor, Dapo Abiodun.

According to him, the discussions focused on promoting unity and ensuring a smooth transition of leadership in the state.

He advised other aspirants to avoid actions that could create division.

Sarafa also clarified that the meeting was not his formal declaration.
“A governorship declaration is done openly, not in a hall. This is a stakeholders’ meeting. The declaration will be made at the appropriate time,” he said.

On national issues, Sarafa said the policies of Tinubu’s administration are aimed at improving the country and called for support for the President’s second term.

The stakeholders adopted a resolution endorsing Tinubu for a second term, Sarafa as their preferred governorship candidate, and agreed to merge all support groups under one body to be known as the Sarafa Support Group.