Sowore backs Aisha Yesufu Senate bid but says she joined the ‘wrong party’
Aisha Yesufu
Nigerian activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has publicly backed the senatorial ambition of fellow activist Aisha Yesufu ahead of the 2027 general elections, even as he criticised her choice of political party.
Sowore’s comments came amid growing conversations around Yesufu’s transition from civil society activism into partisan politics after she officially joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and declared her intention to contest for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial seat.
The development has generated significant reactions online, especially among supporters of opposition politics and youth-driven political movements in Nigeria.
Sowore Supports Aisha Yesufu’s Senate Ambition
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Omoyele Sowore said he fully supports Yesufu’s decision to contest elective office, stressing that activists should actively participate in politics instead of remaining outside the system.
According to Sowore, politics remains one of the most important forms of activism capable of transforming society.
He argued that individuals who genuinely want change must be willing to enter governance and policymaking spaces.
Sowore stated that he hopes Yesufu succeeds in her political ambition, adding that capable and principled individuals should not avoid political participation.
‘She Joined the Wrong Party’ — Sowore
Despite endorsing her candidacy, Sowore insisted that Aisha Yesufu made the wrong decision by joining the Nigeria Democratic Congress.
The activist-turned-politician recently resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) before aligning with the NDC, a political movement associated with supporters of Peter Obi.
Reacting to the move, Sowore said Yesufu should have joined his own political platform instead.
His remarks have sparked debate among opposition supporters, with many discussing whether ideological alignment or political structure will play a bigger role in the build-up to the 2027 elections.
Aisha Yesufu Says She Is Taking Advocacy Into Politics
While explaining her decision to formally enter politics, Aisha Yesufu said she is not abandoning advocacy but rather taking advocacy into the political arena.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Yesufu maintained that she has remained consistent in her activism for more than a decade and intends to continue speaking on governance, accountability, and citizens’ rights.
According to her, activism and politics should not be separated because policy decisions directly affect the issues activists campaign about.
She also rejected criticisms suggesting activists should stay away from government or partisan politics, arguing that several activists who entered public office have performed effectively.
READ ALSO
2027 Elections: NDC shakes Nigeria’s political space with bold South-to-North zoning deal
Why Aisha Yesufu Joined the NDC
Yesufu explained that her decision to join the NDC was influenced by her political convictions and support for Peter Obi.
She described Obi as a symbol of hope for many Nigerians seeking political reforms and accountable leadership.
According to her statement, she joined the party not just as a member but specifically to contest for the FCT senatorial seat during the 2027 elections.
Her move is being viewed as part of a broader realignment among opposition figures and political activists ahead of the next election cycle.
Growing Interest in Activists Entering Nigerian Politics
The conversation surrounding Omoyele Sowore and Aisha Yesufu reflects a growing trend of activists transitioning into mainstream politics in Nigeria.
Political analysts say the development could reshape opposition politics by bringing advocacy-focused voices directly into legislative contests.
Many younger Nigerians have also reacted positively to the idea of activists contesting elections, seeing it as an opportunity for governance reforms and stronger public accountability.
At the same time, questions remain about whether activist credibility can translate into electoral success within Nigeria’s complex political environment.
2027 Elections Already Generating Political Tension
Although the 2027 general elections are still months away, political conversations around party alignments, opposition coalitions, and candidate ambitions are already intensifying across Nigeria.
The latest comments from Sowore and Yesufu have added to discussions about the future of opposition politics and the role of civil society figures in shaping Nigeria’s democratic process.
Observers believe the FCT senatorial race could become one of the most closely watched contests if Yesufu officially secures her party’s ticket.
For now, the activist’s entry into partisan politics marks a major shift that could influence youth engagement and political discourse heading into 2027.
FAQ
What did Sowore say about Aisha Yesufu’s 2027 Senate ambition?
Sowore said he fully supports Aisha Yesufu contesting for political office in 2027 but believes she joined the wrong political party.
Is Aisha Yesufu contesting in the 2027 elections?
Yes. Aisha Yesufu has declared her intention to contest for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.
Which political party did Aisha Yesufu join?
Aisha Yesufu joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) after resigning from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Why did Aisha Yesufu leave ADC?
Yesufu said her decision was based on a deeper political conviction and alignment with the leadership vision associated with Peter Obi.
What position is Aisha Yesufu contesting for?
She plans to contest for the FCT Senatorial seat during the 2027 elections.
What did Aisha Yesufu say about activism and politics?
Yesufu said she is not abandoning activism but taking advocacy directly into politics, arguing that governance and policymaking are extensions of activism.
Did Sowore criticize Aisha Yesufu’s party choice?
Yes. While supporting her candidacy, Sowore said she should have joined his political platform instead of the NDC.
Why is Aisha Yesufu’s political move important?
Her transition into partisan politics is significant because she is one of Nigeria’s most prominent activists and has been influential in civic advocacy movements for years.
Who is supporting Aisha Yesufu’s Senate ambition?
Omoyele Sowore publicly endorsed her ambition, saying good people should participate actively in politics.
Is Peter Obi connected to Aisha Yesufu’s political decision?
Yes. Yesufu stated that she joined the NDC while following the leadership of Peter Obi, whom she described as representing hope for a better Nigeria.
Why are activists entering Nigerian politics?
Many activists believe political participation is necessary to directly influence policies, governance, and institutional reforms rather than advocating from outside government.
What is the significance of the FCT senatorial race in 2027?
The FCT senatorial contest is expected to attract national attention because of the involvement of prominent political voices, activists, and opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.