“…Barriers encountered by Yesufu are the same structural challenges that routinely discourage competent and ethical citizens from seeking elective office.”
By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has eulogised activist and politician Aisha Yesufu for what she described as an exemplary and principled campaign for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate seat, while criticizing the internal process that denied her a fair chance of securing the ticket of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC).
In an open letter released on her X handle on Saturday, addressed to Yesufu following the party’s controversial senatorial primary process, Ezekwesili praised the activist’s entry into partisan politics, describing her campaign as a model of integrity, competence and selfless service.
According to Ezekwesili, Yesufu’s brief but impactful campaign demonstrated what is possible when citizens driven by patriotism and a desire for public service choose to participate in politics.
She said Yesufu had set a high standard for political engagement by adhering to the rules, maintaining integrity throughout the process and remaining committed despite obstacles that eventually undermined her aspiration.
Ezekwesili argued that the circumstances surrounding the failed primary process reflected deeper systemic problems that continue to weaken democratic governance in Nigeria and across Africa. She noted that the barriers encountered by Yesufu are the same structural challenges that routinely discourage competent and ethical citizens from seeking elective office.
The former minister maintained that the incident underscored the urgent need for citizens to work collectively to dismantle entrenched political obstacles if the country hopes to achieve good governance.
Highlighting Yesufu’s long record of activism, Ezekwesili described her as one of Nigeria’s most courageous and principled citizens, noting that she had built national relevance through sacrifice, advocacy and an unwavering commitment to accountability and justice.
She recalled that long before seeking elective office, Yesufu consistently spoke out on national issues, often taking positions many others were unwilling to take. For this reason, Ezekwesili said she considers Yesufu one of the most distinguished occupants of what she calls “The Office of the Citizen.”
Ezekwesili further noted that at a time when many politicians pursue public office for personal gain and privilege, Yesufu entered the race with the intention of serving the public, legislating in the interest of citizens and translating her long-standing advocacy into governance.
She described the activist’s senatorial ambition as a symbol of the possibility that principled citizens can move beyond advocacy and become agents of change within government institutions.
The former minister also expressed disappointment that the NDC leadership failed to provide what she termed a transparent and credible internal electoral process. She stressed that political parties serve as the gatekeepers of democracy and therefore have a responsibility to uphold democratic principles within their own structures.
According to her, parties that claim to champion democratic renewal must demonstrate those values through their actions, warning that Nigerians seeking a new political culture are closely watching developments within political organizations.
Ezekwesili said the controversy surrounding the NDC primary extends beyond Yesufu’s personal ambition and raises broader questions about whether Nigeria is genuinely prepared to create opportunities for ethical, competent and capable citizens to participate meaningfully in governance.
She warned that until the political system embraces such individuals, the country’s democracy risks continually recycling mediocrity while excluding excellence.
Despite the outcome of the primary process, Ezekwesili encouraged Yesufu to remain optimistic, insisting that she had gained something more valuable than a party ticket — the respect, confidence and admiration of many Nigerians who now better understand the challenges facing reform-minded citizens in politics.
She expressed confidence that the activist’s political journey was only beginning and assured her that many Nigerians remain inspired by her decision to offer herself for public service.
Ezekwesili therefore, stated that Nigeria would ultimately appreciate Yesufu’s willingness not only to speak out as a citizen but also to step forward and seek elected office in pursuit of national development.
