Musiliu Obanikoro's Son Warms Up For 2015

Says: "My Father Is My Backbone"

'Jide Obanikoro is the eldest son of Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, the Minister of State for Defence. In this interview with City People's Society Editor, TAYO FAJORIN, 'Jide talks about his plans for 2015, and other sundry issues.

How did politics start for you?

I started partisan politics in 2010, though I have been in politics since my university days. I graduated  in 2006, so it has  been 8 years. I went to Kings College, from there I went to US where I had my 1st degree in Political Science, and a Master’s from a university in New York. Apart from politics,I am into Logistics, Real Estate and Agriculture. I am a card-carrying member of PDP, I contested for Lagos House of Assembly, 2011 and Chairmanship in 2011 respectively. Continue reading.....

Did you intentionally study Political Science to help your political career?

I studied Political Science because I have flair and passion for what I do. I felt my call is in serving people and making sure they all participate in changing lives, contributing my quota to the development of my community, and to the nation as a whole; being my brother’s keeper in order to have one voice and achieving it together.

Having lost in the last elections, what is the next thing for you, politically?

It has been a long time coming, 2015 is around the corner, by August and September this year, I will let my intentions known, definitely I am contesting again.

How has the relationship between you and your father been, as relating to politics?

He is the major backbone I have in politics. We have been together for years and there is nothing I don’t discuss with him. Every information I have or that he has, we always share together. We are a very good team working together.

Can you say your father has opened doors for you in politics?

Yes, my father has helped my political career a great deal. His name has opened so many doors for me. All I do is just to knock on the doors  and they will be opened.

How many stronghold did you gather in the last elections?

I was very strong and strong enough to win any contender, strong enough to win the party ticket and much more to defeat the incumbent party at the polls.

Who were your contenders?

For the House of Assembly, I ran against Muyiwa Ariyo and for the  Chairmanship, same Muyiwa Ariyo was there, Alhaji Idowu and some others.

Is there any project you are working on?

We always have pet projects to work on. They are the ones that are beneficial to the public but I try to keep it off the radar because I do it for God and for the people.

What’s your mum’s role in all of this?

My mum has her days when she is skeptical about my being in politics but in all, she has been supportive. She goes out of her way to make sure her son is not put to shame.

Can you share with us your background?

I am Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro, a.k.a IBO. I come from a humble family. my father is Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, one time governorship aspirant in Lagos State, and former Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana .I am not officially married but I have a fiancee, Fatima and blessed with children. They are doing very well and I am making sure I give them the best legacy and upkeep my father has given me. None of my siblings is into politics for now.

Does your fiancée support your going into politics?

Yes, she has no grudge against it. she is fine with me.