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In a message addressed to the activist, Ezekwesili congratulated Yesufu for what she described as an “exceptional, standard-setting run” and praised her conduct throughout the process.
Her words: “First, hearty congratulations, Aisha, on your exceptional, standard-setting run for the FCT Senate seat.
“In just a few weeks, you showed what becomes possible when a selfless, sensible, competent, and courageous citizen steps into politics for the right reasons. You embodied everything Nigeria desperately needs more of in public office.”
Ezekwesili said Yesufu contested with integrity and remained committed to the process despite the obstacles she encountered.
“You should be immensely proud. You played by the rules, fought with integrity, and stayed the course until the entrenched barriers that routinely shut out citizens like you reared their familiar head.
“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 stated.
The former minister described the experience as a reflection of broader challenges facing democratic participation and good governance in the country.
“Your experience is yet another reminder that until citizens collectively dismantle these systemic barriers, good governance will remain elusive,” she said.
Ezekwesili also commended Yesufu’s record of civic activism and advocacy for accountability, saying: “You spoke when silence was safer. You stood firm when retreat would have been easier.
“You have consistently shown that active citizenship matters, which is why I call you one of the greatest occupants of #TheOfficeOfTheCitizen.
“At a time when many
