2027: Veteran Journalist Modele Sarafa-Yusuf Joins Ogun Governorship Race, Promises Stability, Inclusion And Historic Leadership

A respected media professional and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, setting the stage for what could become a defining political moment for both the state and the nation.
Sarafa-Yusuf, a widely regarded veteran journalist, made her declaration through a public notice addressed to party leaders, members, and stakeholders, describing her decision as one borne out of reflection, consultation, and responsibility rather than political spectacle.
“I chose this system of declaration deliberately to be public, honest, and focused on responsibility rather than theatre,” she stated.
A Calculated Return to the Arena
Sarafa-Yusuf is no stranger to Ogun’s political terrain. She previously stepped forward in 2022 to seek the governorship ticket but did not secure the party’s nomination. In her latest declaration, she referenced that experience as one that strengthened her political maturity.
“I did not destabilise the system. I accepted the outcome, preserved relationships, and stayed engaged,” she wrote — a message clearly aimed at party leaders wary of internal fractures ahead of 2027.
Her re-entry, she explained, is not driven by unfinished ambition but by what she describes as a changing political environment and rising risks that require steady hands.

Positioning for Continuity — Not Confrontation

With Governor Dapo Abiodun set to complete his tenure in 2027, succession politics in Ogun is already drawing attention.
Sarafa-Yusuf was deliberate in clarifying that her aspiration is not an anti-establishment project.
“I have maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with the outgoing governor — the leader of our party. Continuity matters. Order matters. Transitions matter.”
Her language signals a campaign likely to emphasise institutional stability and party cohesion rather than disruption.

“Ogun Must Truly Develop”

Describing Ogun State as blessed with industry, intellect, culture, and national strategic relevance, Sarafa-Yusuf argued that growth alone is insufficient.
“Ogun State must not merely expand; it must truly develop — not just for some, but for all,” she declared.
Her emerging message centres on inclusive growth, institutional balance, and what she calls “governability after victory,” warning against loud populism that may win elections but weaken governance.

Ogun West and the Zoning Question

On the sensitive issue of agitation from Ogun West over zoning, she struck a measured tone.
“The agitation from Ogun West is real. It should not be dismissed,” she acknowledged.
However, she cautioned against allowing zoning debates to escalate into destabilising confrontations, advocating what she termed “inclusion without escalation.”
Political observers see this as a strategic attempt to bridge regional concerns without alienating other blocs within the party.

Breaking the Gender Ceiling

Perhaps the most historic element of her candidacy lies in its gender dimension.
“Nigeria has never elected a female governor,” Sarafa-Yusuf noted, recognising the weight of the barrier she seeks to break.
If successful, she would not only make history in Ogun State but potentially reshape conversations around

women’s leadership within Nigerian politics.

Yet, she was careful to downplay symbolism.
“This is not about symbolism. It is about capacity and competence.”

A New Chapter for Ogun APC

As 2027 approaches, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf’s declaration injects fresh momentum into Ogun APC politics. An experienced journalist transitioning fully into executive ambition, she presents herself as a bridge between continuity and recalibration — promising stability without stagnation, reform without rupture.
With her entry, the race for the Ogun APC ticket has taken on a new dimension — one that blends media credibility, political experience, and the possibility of historic change.