Modele Sarafa-Yusuf declares for Ogun 2027 governorship, vows continuity, unity and competence
Modele Sarafa-Yusuf has declared her intention to seek the governorship of Ogun state in the 2027 general election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In an open letter addressed to party leaders and stakeholders, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation”, stressing that her ambition is anchored on continuity, institutional stability and inclusive development.
She said Ogun must not only grow but develop in a way that guarantees equity and long-term stability for all parts of the state.
“Ogun State is blessed with industry, intellect, culture and strategic relevance to the nation. But progress requires deliberate leadership, balance and trust among our people. It requires continuity,” she said.
The aspirant noted that feedback from party stakeholders indicated that the 2027 political cycle carries higher risks than usual, adding that those committed to stability must engage constructively rather than remain silent.
Recalling her previous attempt to contest for the governorship in 2022, Sarafa-Yusuf said she accepted the outcome without destabilising the party or the state, describing the experience as one that clarified how to compete without fracturing political structures.
On her relationship with the incumbent governor, Dapo Abiodun, she said she maintains a cordial and respectful relationship with him and other former leaders, insisting that her aspiration is not designed to undermine existing leadership.
“This is not a candidacy to rewrite the past. It is to protect what works and improve what must be improved — without rupture,” she said.
Addressing agitation from Ogun West, Sarafa-Yusuf said the grievances are genuine but warned that unmanaged discontent, especially when framed in moral absolutes, could destabilise the state.
“Our task is not to choose sides emotionally. It is to ensure inclusion without escalation,” she added.
She also cautioned against what she described as the growing risk of populist politics, saying loud political mobilisation may secure quick victories but could undermine governability, party cohesion, public trust and investor confidence after elections.
Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged that her aspiration carries a gender dimension, noting that Nigeria has never elected a female governor.
However, she said her candidacy should be judged primarily on competence and capacity, rather than symbolism.
“This is not about entitlement. It is about the ability to govern,” she said.
The APC chieftain described her ambition as a “managed transition option” and ruled out rebellion, opportunism or emotional politics, promising to pursue her aspiration strictly within party structures and with respect for elders and all zones of the state.
Explaining why she is seeking the party’s ticket, Sarafa-Yusuf said she brings experience working with government institutions, broad acceptance across Ogun, the ability to manage political pressure and a fresh perspective for governance.
She said if elected, she would run a consultative but disciplined administration, guided by her academic training in public administration, her professional background as an award-winning journalist and her experience in both public and private sectors.
According to her, her development priorities would include consolidating Ogun’s industrial advantage, empowering young people, modernising infrastructure, strengthening trust between citizens and government, and improving road networks across the state.
“My vision is to provide transformative and inclusive leadership and make Ogun the state of choice to live, work and play because of its economic, educational and social opportunities,” she said.
Sarafa-Yusuf said she looks forward to a credible, orderly and unifying APC primary process ahead of the 2027 elections, adding that her decision to run is driven by preparation, experience and a clear understanding of the state’s economic, security and social challenges.
