2027: Four female aspirants eying Ogun Governorship seat
As the race toward 2027 gathers momentum, political activities are intensifying in Ogun State, with several aspirants jostling to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun at the end of his second term.
- By Samuel Oamen
As the race toward 2027 gathers momentum, political activities are intensifying in Ogun State, with several aspirants jostling to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun at the end of his second term.
Checks by the Nation, indicate that over 15 contenders across political parties are eyeing the state’s top seat. Among them are four female politicians seeking to make history by becoming the first elected female governor in Ogun State since its creation in 1976.
Despite the state’s record of producing notable female leaders, including former deputy governors, the governorship position has remained exclusively male—raising fresh questions about whether the jinx will be broken in 2027.
Here are four female aspirants eying Ogun Governorship:
1. Noimot Salako-Oyedele
The current Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, is considered a strong contender. A civil engineer from Ogun West, she is yet to formally declare but enjoys growing support, with campaign posters and endorsements already surfacing.
Her chances are boosted by agitation for Ogun West to produce the next governor, though she faces the challenge of the “deputy governor succession” hurdle.
2. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has re-entered active politics after years abroad. A former commissioner and senator, she recently defected to the APC and declared her ambition.
Read Also: 10 Nigerian female professors who broke barriers in academia
While supporters cite her experience and leadership strength, critics question her grassroots connection. She has pledged inclusive governance and greater roles for women.
3. Modele Sarafa-Yusuf
Veteran broadcaster Modele Sarafa-Yusuf has formally declared her intention to run. A former aide to Governor Abiodun, she positions herself as a unifying candidate focused on continuity, stability, and inclusive leadership.
She also frames her ambition as part of a broader push to open political space for women.
4. Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina
US-based physician Bolaji Marie Odusina has also joined the race. Known for her medical outreaches in rural communities, she is shifting from humanitarian work to politics.
Though yet to announce her party, she is campaigning on healthcare reform, maternal welfare, and grassroots empowerment, but faces the task of building strong political structures.
With the 2027 election still some distance away, political observers say the emergence of these female aspirants adds a new dimension to the race and could reshape Ogun’s political landscape.
