A former journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.

In an open letter shared via her X handle on Thursday and addressed to party leaders, members and stakeholders, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation.”

The former NTA reporter noted that she opted for a public declaration to underscore what she described as “responsibility rather than spectacle.”

She said her aspiration is driven by the need to manage growth, equity and continuity in Ogun State, stressing that the state must not merely expand but pursue inclusive development.

“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 stated.

Sarafa-Yusuf, who previously sought the party’s governorship ticket in 2022 but did not secure the nomination, said she accepted the outcome in good faith and remained committed to party unity.

“In 2022, I stepped forward to run for the office of governor. I did not prevail. However, I did not destabilise the system. I accepted the outcome, preserved relationships, and stayed engaged,” she said, describing her renewed ambition as “a response to a different political environment.”

Addressing speculations about her relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun, she said she maintains a cordial and respectful relationship with him and other former leaders, emphasising that her candidacy is not aimed at undermining anyone.

On calls for power rotation to Ogun West, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged the legitimacy of zoning concerns but cautioned against allowing the debate to degenerate into 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 termed “inclusion without escalation.”

She also warned against populist politics, noting that while such strategies may quickly galvanise support, they could weaken governance structures and investor confidence if not carefully managed.

On the gender question, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged the symbolic weight of her aspiration, observing that Nigeria has yet to elect a female governor. However, she insisted her ambition is 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.
Describing herself as “the safest option,” she cited her background in journalism, public administration and experience across the public and private sectors as qualifications she would deploy if elected.

“If I secure the party’s ticket and am elected, I will govern as an administrator — consultative but firm and disciplined. Institutions will be respected. Power will be exercised with restraint,” she pledged.

Sarafa-Yusuf said her vision includes consolidating Ogun’s industrial base, empowering young people, modernising infrastructure and strengthening trust between government and citizens.

She expressed hope for a transparent and credible primary process, urging party stakeholders to give her aspiration “measured consideration” as consultations intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship race.