A former journalist and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state, positioning herself as what she described as “the safest option” for managing the state’s growth and development.
Sarafa-Yusuf made the announcement in an open letter posted on her X handle on Thursday, February 26, addressed to party leaders, members, and stakeholders.
The former Nigerian Television Authority reporter said her decision came after “deep reflection and wide consultation” and that she chose a public declaration to emphasise “responsibility rather than spectacle.”
She said her aspiration was driven by the need for deliberate leadership that prioritises equity, continuity, and inclusive development in Ogun State.
“Ogun State is blessed, yet we all know that blessings alone do not guarantee progress. Progress requires deliberate leadership, balance, and trust among our people. It requires continuity,” she said.
Sarafa-Yusuf is not new to the governorship race. She contested for the APC ticket in 2022 but did not secure the nomination. She said she accepted the outcome at the time without disrupting the party.
“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,” she said, adding that her renewed ambition was “a response to a different political environment.”
On her relationship with the incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun, Sarafa-Yusuf said she maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with both the governor and other former leaders, stressing that her candidacy was not intended to undermine anyone.
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Addressing the contentious debate around power shift to Ogun West, she acknowledged that the agitation was legitimate but cautioned against allowing zoning arguments to create instability.
“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,” she said, advocating what she called “inclusion without escalation.”
The aspirant warned against the dangers of populist politics, saying that while it could mobilise support quickly, it risked undermining governance and investor confidence if not properly managed.
On the significance of her gender in the race, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged that Nigeria is yet to elect a female governor but insisted that her ambition was rooted in competence rather than symbolism.
“I do not underestimate it, and I do not overplay it… this is not about symbolism. It is about capacity and competence,” she said.
She cited her experience spanning journalism, public administration, and the private sector as qualifications she would bring to the office.
“If I get the party’s ticket and go on to be elected, I will govern as an administrator — consultative but firm and disciplined. Institutions will be respected. Power will be exercised with restraint,” she said.
Sarafa-Yusuf outlined a vision that includes consolidating Ogun’s industrial base, empowering youth, modernising infrastructure, and rebuilding trust between government and citizens.
She called for an orderly and credible primary process and urged party stakeholders to give her aspiration “measured consideration” as consultations continue ahead of the 2027 elections.