Ogun 2027: Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf Steps Forward, Seeks APC Governorship Ticket

In her declaration on Thursday, she positioned her candidacy as a “managed transition option” aimed at safeguarding unity, institutional balance, and governability in the state.

Her declaration note reads; Distinguished Leaders, Members, and Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ogun State,

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO RUN FOR THE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

After deep reflection and extensive consultation, I have decided to make myself available to serve as our party’s candidate for Governor of Ogun State in the 2027 elections.

I chose this system of declaration deliberately to be public, honest, and focused on responsibility rather than spectacle. And I will speak plainly.

Each generation is tested by history in different ways. Ours 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.

Ogun State is blessed. Blessed with industry, blessed with intellect, blessed with culture, and blessed with strategic relevance to the nation. Yet we all know that blessings alone do not guarantee progress. Progress requires deliberate leadership, balance, and trust among our people. It requires continuity.

Today, I want to share a vision rooted in unity, competence, and fairness.

For many months, I have listened carefully — not just to social media noise, but to those of you who understand how Ogun State works, how power transitions succeed or fail, and what instability costs.

The feedback has been consistent: “this cycle carries more risk than usual.”

I am therefore writing you today because when risk rises, those who value continuity and institutional balance must not remain silent.

Many of you know my political history.

In 2022, I stepped forward to run for the office of the governor. I did not prevail.

However, I did not destabilise the system. I accepted the outcome, preserved relationships, and stayed engaged. That experience clarified two things for me:

▪︎where the red lines are, and

• what it takes to compete without fracturing the party or the state.

This is, however, not a return driven by unfinished business. It is a response to a different political environment.

Now, let me use my journalistic experience to guess and address what many of you may be quietly asking:

1) Relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun.

I have maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with the outgoing governor- the leader of our party. This is because I believe that continuity matters. Order matters. Transitions matter. I also enjoy a cordial relationship with other former leaders. This is, therefore, 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.

2) Ogun West — De-Escalation, Not Debate

The agitation from Ogun West is real. It should not be dismissed.

But unmanaged grievance is dangerous — especially when it is framed in moral absolutes.

Our task is not to choose sides emotionally; it is to prevent a scenario where zoning becomes a blunt instrument that destabilises the entire state.

What Ogun needs is inclusion without escalation.

3) Populism Risk

We all know that loud politics can mobilise quickly — and collapse just as quickly, leaving damage behind.

My concern is not electoral victory alone. It is governability after victory.

Ogun State has always rewarded moderation, balance, and institutional respect. When politics becomes theatre, governance suffers — and so does party cohesion, public trust, and investor confidence.

4) Gender

I am aware that my candidacy carries a gender dimension. I do not underestimate it, and I do not overplay it.

Nigeria has never elected a female governor, and I’m aware of the weight of breaking that ceiling. To that extent, my aspiration isn’t just about me; it’s about paving the way for future generations of women leaders in Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

However, this is not about symbolism. It is about capacity and competence.

Let me also be clear about what else this candidacy is not.

It is not a rebellion.

It is not opportunism.

It is not an emotional project.

It is a managed transition option.

If this path proceeds, it will do so within party structures, with respect for elders, and with sensitivity to all zones without allowing grievance to become destabilisation.

So, Why Me?

I am not presenting myself as the loudest option. I am presenting myself as the safest option. I bring:

– experience working with government institutions and processes
– broad appeal and acceptance across different parts of Ogun State
– a gender advantage without entitlement
– fresh perspective and enthusiasm for bringing positive change
– calm under pressure and the ability to absorb political heat without transferring it to the system.

If I get the party’s ticket and go on to be elected, I will drive result-oriented governance by leveraging on my Master’s degree in Public Administration; the vast knowledge gained from my years as an award-winning journalist; and my successful careers in both the public and private sectors. I will govern as an administrator — consultative but firm and disciplined. Those who work with me will know where they stand. Institutions will be respected. Power will be exercised with restraint.

Sirs/Mas, I am by this open letter asking for measured consideration.

Over the coming weeks, I will continue to consult quietly. I will listen carefully. And I will move deliberately.

Those who choose to engage with this project will find predictability, discretion, and respect.

This decision continues to be guided by a single question: What option best protects Ogun State’s stability, unity, and governability in the next cycle?

I believe this option deserves serious consideration.

Again, my aspiration to serve as governor is not driven by sentiment. It is driven by preparation, by experience, and by a clear understanding of the economic, security, and social priorities before us: Ogun State must consolidate its industrial advantage, empower its youth, modernize its infrastructure, deepen trust between government and citizens; and yes, build those roads!

My vision is to provide transformative and inclusive leadership and make Ogun the state of choice for people to live, work, and play because of its economic, educational, and social opportunities. And because of its livability, vibrancy, and connectedness.

In conclusion, transitions succeed when fear is managed early. They fail when emotion is allowed to outrun structure.

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

I look forward to a primary process that is orderly, credible, and unifying. And I hope, with your wisdom and support, we can walk this path together.

I thank you, our dear leaders, for your time, your consideration, and your continued commitment to Ogun State

Yours truly,

*’Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf, FIMC*
February 26, 2026

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