INTERVIEW: ‘I want to do beyond healthcare for my people’ — SDP Ibadan North aspirant, Dr. Isila Ibadan

Prominent medical doctor, Dr. Islamiyat Oluwatoyin Abdulkadir, popularly known as Dr. Isila Ibadan, has emerged as a strong contender in the race for the Ibadan North House of Representatives seat, thanks to her pedigree and legislative agenda. She speaks with WESTERN POST’s Innocent Raphael about her vision, political journey, and plans for her constituency.

Your teeming supporters call you Dr. Isila Ibadan. Could you tell us how you got that moniker, and share a little background about yourself?

The name Dr. Isila Ibadan came from the people themselves. One of my names is Islamiyat and, over time, people began shortening it to “Isila.” Some also started attaching the place I come from to form “Isila Ibadan.” Through my medical practice and community outreach over the years, I became deeply involved in the lives of people across Ibadan. Patients, market women, artisans, and youths like myself popularised the name.

You are a practising medical professional. Why did you enlist in politics?

My medical profession has given me the privilege of listening to people’s struggles daily—health challenges often rooted in poverty, lack of infrastructure, and poor governance. While I could treat illnesses one person at a time, I realised political leadership allows me to tackle the root causes affecting thousands at once.

For me, politics is an extension of service, not ambition. It is about creating systems that work so that good health, quality education, and economic opportunities are within everyone’s reach. I don’t want to stop at healthcare. I want to go beyond it—into education, women’s, men’s, and youth empowerment, and more.

The late lawmaker who represented Ibadan North, Akinremi “Jagaban,” was well-respected for his contributions. What do you intend to do differently?

May Almighty Allah forgive his sins and grant him a beautiful repose. I respect his legacy and the work he did for Ibadan North. However, every leader brings a unique vision. My agenda will combine infrastructure development with human capital development, security, community growth, and education. I will pay special attention to healthcare accessibility, vocational training for youths, and women-focused entrepreneurship programmes. Sustainable development comes from investing in people as much as in structures.

You are known to have cordial relationships with some leading figures in Oyo State such as Governor Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan of Ibadan Designate, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and former Senate Leader Teslim Folarin. How do you respond?

(Laughs) These leaders are like fathers to me, and I believe they also see me as a daughter. Politics should not be about enmity but about service. I maintain cordial relationships across political lines, and I see this as an asset. The ability to work with diverse stakeholders creates more opportunities to attract resources and development to Ibadan North. My guiding principles are respect for elders, collaboration for progress, and putting the people of Ibadan first.

Some opponents say the SDP you represent will not be on the ballot. What is the true situation? And why did you choose SDP over the major parties?

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is very much on the ballot. Our electoral teams have ensured all documentation with INEC is in order. My choice of SDP was intentional—it gives me the independence to stay true to my values, without the overbearing structures and compromises of the so-called major parties. The SDP’s ideology of social justice, people-oriented governance, and grassroots engagement aligns perfectly with my mission for Ibadan North.

How do you assess your chances in this election?

(Smiles) Now you’ve also joined the people calling me Dr. Isila Ibadan! I am confident but not complacent. The massive grassroots support I enjoy, the trust I have built over years of service, and the strong organisational structure of my campaign give me a real edge. This election is not about big names or big parties; it is about credibility, connection with the people, and a proven track record. I believe Ibadan North is ready for a new chapter—and together, we will make it happen.