A former journalist and prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has officially announced her plan to run for the governorship of the state in the 2027 election.
In an open letter shared on her X page on Thursday and addressed to party leaders, members and stakeholders, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision was reached after “deep reflection and wide consultation.” She explained that she opted for a public declaration to underscore “responsibility rather than spectacle.”
The former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) reporter said her ambition is anchored on the need to effectively manage growth, promote fairness and ensure continuity in Ogun State, stressing that development must be inclusive and sustainable.
“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.
Recalling her previous attempt to secure the party’s governorship ticket in 2022, Sarafa-Yusuf noted that although she did not emerge as the nominee, she respected the process and remained loyal to 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 bid was “a response to a different political environment.”
She also addressed speculations about her relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun, stating that she enjoys a cordial and respectful rapport with him and other former leaders, and that her ambition is not intended to challenge or undermine anyone.
On the agitation for power rotation to Ogun West, she acknowledged the legitimacy of the concerns but warned against allowing zoning debates to fuel division.
“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, calling for “inclusion without escalation.”
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Sarafa-Yusuf further cautioned against excessive populist politics, noting that although it could rapidly galvanise support, it might also weaken governance and deter investors if not carefully managed.
On gender representation, she recognised the significance of her aspiration, especially as Nigeria is yet to produce a female governor, but stressed that her candidacy is based on competence, not 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.
Describing herself as “the safest option,” she highlighted her background in journalism, public administration and experience across public and private sectors as strengths she would bring to governance.
“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.
She added that her agenda includes strengthening Ogun’s industrial growth, youth empowerment, infrastructure development and rebuilding public trust in governance.
Sarafa-Yusuf concluded by expressing confidence in a transparent and credible primary election, appealing to party stakeholders to give her ambition “measured consideration” as consultations continue ahead of the 2027 polls.