As preparations for the 2027 governorship race gather pace, political activities across Ogun State are gradually intensifying among aspirants seeking to succeed the incumbent administration.
Governor Dapo Abiodun is expected to complete his constitutionally allowed tenure by 2027, creating an opening for new political actors to compete for leadership in the state.
Findings indicate that more than 15 individuals across different political platforms are already positioning themselves for the contest, reflecting early mobilisation ahead of the election cycle.
Among these aspirants, four women have drawn notable attention, as their participation highlights a possible shift in gender representation within the state’s political landscape.
Ogun State has a history of producing female political leaders in different capacities, including local government administration and deputy governorship positions over the years.
The late Titilayo Ajanaku made history as Nigeria’s first elected female local government chairman, while other women have served as deputy governors under successive administrations.
Despite these milestones, the governorship position has remained occupied by men since the creation of Ogun State in 1976, leaving a gap yet to be filled.
Political observers say the emergence of female aspirants in the current race has renewed conversations about whether the long-standing pattern could change in the next electoral cycle.
The deputy governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, is considered one of the prominent figures in the emerging contest, given her position within the current administration.
Salako-Oyedele, a civil engineer and real estate professional from Ogun West, has not formally declared her ambition but has attracted public attention through campaign-style messaging.
Supporters have circulated materials suggesting continuity in governance, while informal endorsements have also surfaced within political circles across the state.
Her regional background is also viewed as significant, as Ogun West has yet to produce a governor since the state was created several decades ago.
However, political analysts note that deputy governors in Nigeria often face structural and political challenges when seeking to succeed their principals.
Another aspirant drawing attention is the former senator, Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, who recently returned to active politics after an extended absence.
The daughter of former president Olusegun Obasanjo previously served as commissioner for health and later represented Ogun Central in the senate between 2007 and 2011.
Her re-entry into the political space followed her defection to the ruling party, a move that generated reactions among political stakeholders within the state.
Obasanjo-Bello has since engaged in consultations and public engagements, signalling renewed interest in governance at the state level.
She said, “Development demands continuity, institutional memory and a leadership that understands that governance is a relay, not a sprint. If entrusted with the mandate in 2027, my administration will be anchored on credibility, competence and compassion.
“We will not run a government of exclusion. Women will not merely be mobilisers during elections; they will be decision-makers at the highest levels of governance.”
Observers say her political experience and family background may influence her campaign, although critics have raised concerns about her long absence from local politics.
Also in the race is the former special adviser, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, who has publicly declared her intention to contest the governorship election.
Sarafa-Yusuf, a broadcast journalist by training, previously served in the current administration and had earlier shown interest in the 2023 election cycle.
Her declaration, made through a public communication, emphasised the need for deliberate leadership and inclusive governance within the state.
She said, “Ogun State is blessed with industry, blessed with intellect, blessed with culture, and blessed with 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.
“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 also highlighted the broader significance of her ambition, linking it to increased participation of women in leadership roles.
Sarafa-Yusuf said, “Nigeria has never elected a female governor, and I’m aware of the weight of breaking that ceiling.
“To that extent, 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.”
Another figure gaining attention is the medical practitioner, Bolaji Marie Odusina, who recently declared her intention to contest the governorship position.
Odusina, who is based in the United States, has built a reputation through medical outreach programmes targeting underserved communities in Ogun State.
Her transition into politics marks a shift from humanitarian work to public administration, as she seeks to address systemic challenges in healthcare and social welfare.
She said, “I have seen families travel across borders for basic medical care. These are not statistics to me; they are real people whose pain I have witnessed.”
Her campaign is expected to focus on healthcare delivery, maternal health, and grassroots economic development, according to her public statements.
Analysts, however, note that her success may depend on her ability to build political structures and secure a viable platform ahead of the election.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the participation of these four women reflects a growing diversity among aspirants seeking the governorship position.
While the outcome of the election remains uncertain, their emergence has added a new dimension to the contest ahead of the 2027 polls in Ogun State.
