- Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf officially announced her intention to contest the 2027 APC governorship primaries in Ogun State, following wide consultation and reflection
- She pledged consultative, disciplined leadership focused on industrial growth, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and trust between government and citizens
- Sarafa-Yusuf urged moderation on zoning issues, rejected populist politics, and emphasised competence over gender symbolism in her candidacy
Former Nigerian Television Authority reporter and ‘Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf has officially declared her intention to contest the 2027 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Ogun State.
In an open letter posted on her X handle, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation,” emphasizing a declaration based on “responsibility rather than spectacle.” She stressed that her aspiration is motivated by the need to ensure growth, equity, and continuity in the state, advocating inclusive development rather than mere expansion.
Reflecting on her previous attempt for the APC governorship ticket in 2022, she noted: “I did not prevail. However, I did not destabilise the system. I accepted the outcome, preserved relationships, and stayed engaged.” She described her renewed ambition as a response to a “different political environment.”
Addressing zoning concerns, particularly calls for a power shift to Ogun West, Sarafa-Yusuf urged moderation, cautioning that “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 also warned against populist politics, which, while mobilising support quickly, could undermine governance and investor confidence.
On the gender aspect of her candidacy, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged Nigeria’s historical absence of female governors but emphasized competence over symbolism: “This is not about symbolism. It is about capacity and competence.” She described herself as “the safest option,” citing her experience in journalism, public administration, and both the public and private sectors.
Outlining her governance philosophy, she promised consultative yet disciplined leadership, respect for institutions, and prudent exercise of power. Her vision includes consolidating Ogun’s industrial base, youth empowerment, infrastructure modernization, and strengthening trust between government and citizens.
Sarafa-Yusuf concluded by urging APC stakeholders to give her aspiration “measured consideration” and expressed hope for an orderly and credible primary process ahead of the 2027 elections.