Veteran journalist, pioneer female sportscaster, and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 Ogun State governorship election on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a lengthy open letter posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday afternoon, Sarafa-Yusuf addressed party leaders, members, and stakeholders, framing her bid as a call for continuity, stability, and inclusive development rather than political spectacle.
“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,” she wrote.
The former Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun — who also chaired his 2018 campaign — emphasised that her decision stems from a desire to manage what she described as heightened political risks in the coming cycle.
“Ogun State is blessed with industry, intellect, culture, and 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,” she stated.
Sarafa-Yusuf, a native of Iperu-Remo in Ogun State and an award-winning broadcaster who rose to prominence as Africa’s first female national television sportscaster on NTA, referenced her unsuccessful 2022 governorship bid. She noted that she accepted the outcome without destabilising the party or state structures.
“This is, however, not a return driven by unfinished business. It is a response to a different political environment,” she clarified.
She directly addressed four key issues likely on the minds of party stakeholders:
Relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun: “I have maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with the outgoing governor — the leader of our party… This is, therefore, not a candidacy designed to undermine any of our leaders.”
Ogun West agitation: She acknowledged the “real” demand for power shift to Ogun West but called for “de-escalation, not debate” and “inclusion without escalation,” warning that unmanaged grievances could destabilise the state.
Risk of populism: Sarafa-Yusuf cautioned against “loud politics” that mobilises quickly but collapses, stressing that her priority is “governability after victory” and that Ogun has historically rewarded moderation and institutional respect.
Gender dimension: “Nigeria has never elected a female governor, and I’m aware of the weight of breaking that ceiling… 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.”
In a follow-up section of the declaration, she described her candidacy as “a managed transition option” and “the safest option,” citing her Master’s degree in Public Administration, decades of experience in journalism, government, and the private sector.
“If I get the party’s ticket and go on to be elected, I will drive result-oriented governance… I will govern as an administrator — consultative but firm and disciplined,” she added.
The declaration comes as political activities for the 2027 elections begin to intensify in Ogun State, where zoning debates, particularly around the Ogun West Senatorial District, have long been sensitive.
