By our Reporter
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest for the office of Governor of Ogun State in the 2027 general elections.
In an open letter dated February 26, 2026, and addressed to party leaders, members, and stakeholders, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation.” She stated that her aspiration is driven by a commitment to continuity, institutional balance, and responsible leadership.
“I have decided to make myself available to serve as our party’s candidate for Governor of Ogun State in the 2027 elections,” she wrote, noting that her declaration was deliberately public and focused on “responsibility rather than spectacle.”
Sarafa-Yusuf said Ogun State must move beyond expansion to genuine development that benefits all residents, stressing the need for unity, competence, and fairness in the next political cycle. She warned that the coming transition period carries “more risk than usual,” adding that stakeholders who value stability must not remain silent.
The APC aspirant, who previously contested the governorship in 2022, said she accepted the outcome of that race without destabilising the party. According to her, the experience clarified the political landscape and strengthened her resolve to pursue leadership without fracturing party cohesion.
Addressing concerns about zoning and agitation from Ogun West, Sarafa-Yusuf described the grievances as real but cautioned against allowing them to escalate into instability. “What Ogun needs is inclusion without escalation,” she stated.
She also acknowledged the gender dimension of her candidacy, noting that Nigeria has yet to elect a female governor. However, she emphasised that her aspiration is rooted in competence rather than symbolism.
Sarafa-Yusuf described her bid as neither a rebellion nor an emotional project, but a “managed transition option” that would respect party structures and elders while protecting what works in the current administration.
She pledged to deliver result-oriented governance if elected, citing her Master’s degree in Public Administration, experience as an award-winning journalist, and career in both the public and private sectors as key qualifications.
Her vision, she said, includes consolidating Ogun State’s industrial advantage, empowering youth, modernising infrastructure, strengthening security, and deepening trust between government and citizens.
“I believe Ogun State is ready for a future built on balance, unity, and effective leadership. I am ready to serve,” she said, expressing hope for an orderly and credible primary process within the APC.
Sarafa-Yusuf concluded by calling for measured consideration from party leaders and stakeholders as consultations continue in the weeks ahead.
