Isiaka denies being pressured into 2027 governorship race, calls for level playing field

The lawmaker representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency in Ogun State, Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, on Sunday dismissed claims that he was pressured by political associates to join the 2027 governorship race, insisting that his ambition is self-driven.

Isiaka, a three-time gubernatorial candidate and chairman of the House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, spoke during a press conference in Abeokuta.

The former 2019 African Democratic Congress gubernatorial candidate said it would be unfair to suggest he was pressured into the race, given his long-standing involvement in the state’s political landscape.

“After contesting elections three times, even under a relatively unknown party, it wouldn’t be right for anyone to say I was pushed,” he said.

He added that his participation in the political process over the years has earned him the experience and credibility needed to engage stakeholders on the future of the state.

“I’ve invested so much in this process that I can sit at most tables and discuss what needs to be done. I’m reasonably qualified to do it if the need arises,” he said.

Isiaka stressed that although consultations with political leaders are ongoing, they are part of the democratic process and are not evidence of external pressure.

According to him, “There’s nothing about being pushed. This is something I believe in and want to be a part of, even from a legacy point of view.”

The MP also warned against attempts to impose a single candidate on the state, saying such a move would be hampered.

“One of the things that some of us will resist is a situation where the field is supposedly taken over by one person and no one can challenge it. That will not be good,” he said.

He argued that every aspirant should be given a fair opportunity to compete, regardless of their perceived chances of success.

“Even if someone has only a 10% chance, why deny him that opportunity? The goal is to produce a governor acceptable to the people,” he added.

Isiaka noted that political outcomes are shaped by consultations and consensus, urging party leaders to allow for a transparent and inclusive process.

“The best thing leaders can do is to encourage all aspirants and ask everyone to support whoever emerges. Stopping people from running will only create problems,” he said.

On governance, the MP expressed concern over the shortcomings of Nigeria’s budget system, calling for urgent reforms to address what he described as persistent abuses.

He said the current “envelope system”, introduced during the tenure of former Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has outlived its usefulness and requires an overhaul.

“The budget system has its imperfections. That’s why we are pushing for reforms through a national workshop and legislative measures to reduce abuses,” he said.

Isiaka further downplayed the impact of recent political endorsements for other aspirants, insisting that such developments would not deter his ambition.

“I may not be happy about it, but it is of no consequence. Politics is dynamic and we understand what is happening,” he said.

Reiterating his confidence, the lawmaker said his political track record, including polling more than 100,000 votes in previous elections without the support of major political structures, demonstrated his vitality.

“I am in this race based on expertise, knowledge and experience, not on religion or regional sentiment,” he added.

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