Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf has formally declared her intention to run for the office of Governor of Ogun State in the 2027 elections, promising a vision of unity, competence, and inclusive leadership.
The announcement was made in an open letter addressed to leaders, members, and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state on February 26, 2026.
In her statement, Sarafa-Yusuf said: “After deep reflection and wide consultation, I have decided to make myself available to serve as our party’s candidate for Governor, 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.”
She highlighted the strategic importance of Ogun State and the need for deliberate leadership to ensure equitable growth. “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,” she stated.
Reflecting on the state’s potential, she said: “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.”
Sarafa-Yusuf emphasized that her candidacy is grounded in experience, preparation, and a commitment to stability. “This is, however, not a return driven by unfinished business. It is a response to a different political environment,” she said, recalling her previous gubernatorial run in 2022, in which she accepted the outcome without destabilizing the party.
Addressing concerns about her relationship with the outgoing governor, Dapo Abiodun, she said: “I have maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with the outgoing governor—the leader of our party.
“ 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 also addressed regional tensions, particularly in Ogun West, noting: “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.”
On populism, she warned against politics that prioritizes spectacle over governance. “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,” she said.
She acknowledged the gender dimension of her candidacy, framing it as a matter of capacity rather than symbolism. “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,” Sarafa-Yusuf said.
Clarifying what her candidacy is not, she added: “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.”
On why she believes she is the right candidate, Sarafa-Yusuf said: “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, and calm under pressure and the ability to absorb political heat without transferring it to the system.”
She pledged results-oriented governance if elected, citing her academic and professional experience. “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,” she said.
Concluding her declaration, Sarafa-Yusuf urged measured consideration and an orderly primary process. “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,” she said.
She signed off emphasising her commitment to Ogun State’s stability, unity, and development. “I believe Ogun State is ready for a future built on balance, unity, and effective leadership. I am ready to serve,” she concluded.
Hashtags accompanying the declaration included #GatewayToProsperity, #ServingOgunWithIntegrity, #TheBestManForTheJobIsAWoman, #AdireOgun.
Boluwatife Enome
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