By Jude Opara
A former minister of Education and an activist, Oby Ezekwesili, has hailed Aisha Yesufu conduct during the race for the Federal Capital Territory Senate ticket, (FCT) describing her campaign as a model of integrity, competence and citizen-driven politics.
In an open letter addressed to Yesufu following her failure to secure the ticket, she congratulated her for what was described as an “exceptional and standard-setting” campaign, despite the outcome of the party’s candidate selection process.
The she argued that Yesufu’s brief foray into electoral politics demonstrated the potential of principled citizens to participate actively in governance and public service.
According to her, Yesufu embodied the qualities many Nigerians desire in public office, including courage, accountability, competence and selflessness.
Ezekwesili maintained that the circumstances surrounding her unsuccessful bid highlighted deeper structural challenges within Nigeria’s political system, which often prevent credible and reform-minded individuals from emerging through party processes.
“No reasonable observer is in doubt: what happened to your aspiration is the very disease that continues to cripple governance in Nigeria and across Africa,” she said.
She further described Yesufu as one of the country’s most influential citizen advocates, noting that she earned national prominence through years of activism and advocacy for accountability, justice and democratic governance.
She said her decision to seek elective office represented an attempt to translate advocacy into legislative action and public service.
While commending her resilience throughout the process, the supporter expressed disappointment with the handling of the primary exercise by the NDC.
According to her, political parties serve as gatekeepers of democracy and must uphold transparency, fairness and internal democracy if they are to inspire public confidence.
“It is therefore baffling that the NDC leadership failed to guarantee a transparent and credible internal process,” she stated.
She urged the party to undertake reforms and embrace democratic principles, warning that Nigerians seeking a new political culture would closely monitor the conduct of political parties ahead of future elections.
The statement also argued that the controversy surrounding Yesufu’s bid raises broader questions about whether Nigeria’s political system is prepared to accommodate ethical and competent citizens seeking public office.
Despite the setback, the writer insisted that Yesufu had earned widespread admiration and strengthened her reputation among Nigerians who desire political reform.
The letter concluded with a message of encouragement, expressing confidence that her political journey was only beginning and assuring her of continued support from admirers across the country.
