Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sharafa Tunji Ishola, yesterday received a major political boost as multiple support groups across Ogun State converged to endorse him for the 2027 governorship race.

The endorsement gathering, which drew grassroots politicians, residents, and traditional leaders from the three senatorial districts of the state, was aimed at harmonizing various political structures backing Ishola’s ambition

Speaking at the event, he noted that beyond political ambition, his primary concern is to harmonize the state politically, expressing concern that the division amongst political classes is hindering the development of the state.

Ishola insisted that the narrative of hostile succession must stop in Ogun State if it must realise its potential.

The former Ambassador, however, stressed the need for unity among political actors across local governments, stressing that cohesion and strategic alignment would be critical to achieving their collective objective.

He said “We are not here for any governorship declaration. What we have come to do is harmonize our positions and formalize our endorsement. The declaration will come at the appropriate time.

“We are too politically divided, and we always have hostile succession. From one administration to another,  it has always been a thug of war. Are we going to continue like this?

“My concern is to stop hostile succession in Ogun State so that we can all come together for Ogun to realize its potential, and I am still pursuing that course till date,”he added.

According to him, the meeting was not convened for a formal declaration of governorship ambition but to consolidate support and strengthen internal coordination among loyalists.

Reflecting on his public service record, Ishola highlighted his experience at both state and federal levels, including his tenure as Secretary to the Ogun State Government and as Minister of Mines and Steel Development. He also referenced his diplomatic role as Nigeria’s envoy to the United Kingdom.

He stated that his years in public service have prepared him for higher responsibilities and reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ogun State.

The former envoy also used the occasion to throw his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging attendees to support the President’s re-election bid.

Earlier in his address, an All Progressives Congress (APC), Chieftain, Chief Joju Fadairo disclosed that he had embarked on solidarity visit to political bigwigs in the state and elder statesmen, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo,  soliciting support for Sharafa Tunji Ishola for governor.

According to Fadairo, his choice of Ishola is based on his past record, personality, and his achievements as the former High Commissioner, citing how Shola harmonized divided  Nigerians in the United Kingdom.