Sarafa-Yusuf Declares Intent to Run for Ogun Governor in 2027

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, ‘Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the party.

In an open letter addressed to leaders, members and stakeholders of the APC in the state on February 26, 2026, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation,” adding that she opted for a public declaration rooted in “responsibility rather than spectacle.”

She said the 2027 political cycle presents heightened risks that require careful management to preserve stability, continuity and institutional balance in the state.

“Our generation is being tested by how well we manage growth, equity, and continuity—how we ensure that Ogun State does not merely expand but truly develops; not just for some, but for all,” she stated.

Sarafa-Yusuf, who previously contested the APC governorship ticket in 2022 but did not emerge as candidate, said she accepted the outcome of the primary at the time without destabilising the party.

“That experience clarified where the red lines are and what it takes to compete without fracturing the party or the state,” she said, describing her renewed ambition as a response to a “different political environment” rather than unfinished business.

Addressing concerns about her relationship with the incumbent governor, Dapo Abiodun, she said she has maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with him and other former leaders in the state.

“This is not a candidacy designed to undermine any of our leaders or rewrite the past. It is designed to protect what works and improve what must be improved — without rupture,” she noted.

On agitation for power shift to Ogun West, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged that the concerns from the senatorial district are legitimate but warned against allowing zoning debates to escalate into destabilising disputes.

“The task is inclusion without escalation,” she said, adding that unmanaged grievances framed in “moral absolutes” could pose risks to unity.

She also cautioned against what she described as populist politics, arguing that electoral victory without governability could damage party cohesion, public trust and investor confidence.

On gender, Sarafa-Yusuf said while her aspiration carries symbolic significance, especially in a country yet to elect a female governor, her focus remains on competence and capacity.

“It is not about symbolism. It is about preparation and ability,” she stated, adding that her candidacy could open doors for more women in leadership.

Highlighting her credentials, the APC stalwart cited her Master’s degree in Public Administration, experience as an award-winning journalist, and career across public and private sectors as assets she would bring to governance.

She pledged to run a consultative but disciplined administration if elected, with respect for institutions and restrained exercise of power.

“Ogun State must consolidate its industrial advantage, empower its youth, modernise its infrastructure, deepen trust between government and citizens, and strengthen unity,” she said.

Sarafa-Yusuf called for an orderly, credible and unifying primary process within the APC and said she would continue consultations with party stakeholders in the coming weeks.

“I believe Ogun State is ready for a future built on balance, unity and effective leadership. I am ready to serve,” she declared.