As the countdown to 2027 gathers momentum, the political climate in Ogun, the Gateway State, is already charged with ambition.
There is currently intense competition for the position to succeed Dapo Abiodun as governor.
By 2027, Governor Abiodun will complete his eight-year tenure, paving the way for a new occupant at the Oke Mosan seat of power.
Findings by our correspondent reveal that more than 15 aspirants across different political parties are eyeing Ogun’s top political office.
Among these contenders, four female politicians are seeking to make history—not just in Ogun State, but across Nigeria.
A Jinx Waiting to be Broken
Ogun State has long been a trailblazer in female political representation, producing notable figures such as the late Titilayo Ajanaku, who became Nigeria’s first elected female local government chairman in Old Abeokuta.
The state has also produced a female Speaker and at least three deputy governors.
Salimot Badiru served for eight years under Gbenga Daniel (2003–2011), while Yetunde Onanuga served under Ibikunle Amosun (2015–2019). Currently, Noimot Salako-Oyedele holds the position of deputy governor.
Despite these milestones, the governorship seat has remained exclusively occupied by men since the state’s creation in 1976. Whether this long-standing pattern will change in 2027 remains a major question among political observers.
Noimot Salako-Oyedele
As the incumbent Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele is widely regarded as a strong contender. The 60-year-old civil engineer and real estate expert hails from Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government in Ogun West.
Although she has not formally declared her ambition, her campaign posters with the slogan “Ogun 2027: Let The Good Works Continue” have begun circulating.
Supporters have also rallied behind her with the chant “Noimot lo le se oo” (meaning “Noimot can do it”).
Her chances are further strengthened by the fact that Ogun West has never produced a governor since 1976, though she faces stiff competition from others in the same region.
However, political history in Nigeria shows that deputy governors often struggle to succeed their principals, a challenge she may need to overcome.
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello: The Return of the “Lioness”
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, remains a formidable figure in Nigerian politics.
She previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health (2003–2007) and later as Senator representing Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011.
After about 15 years away from active politics, she made a dramatic return in January, defecting from the PDP to the APC and declaring her governorship ambition—sparking widespread reactions.
Supporters describe her as a firm and experienced leader capable of bringing federal-level expertise back to Ogun State. However, critics argue that her long stay abroad has distanced her from grassroots realities.
In response, she has intensified consultations across the state, emphasizing her commitment to people-centered governance.
She has also pledged to promote inclusivity, particularly for women, stating that women would not only mobilize voters but actively participate in decision-making at the highest levels.
Modele Sarafa-Yusuf: The Media Strategist
Veteran broadcaster Modele Sarafa-Yusuf has also signaled her intention to contest in 2027.
The 59-year-old former Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Abiodun had earlier stepped down from her role to pursue the APC ticket in 2023, demonstrating her long-term ambition.
She officially declared her intention in February through an open letter shared on her X account.
Sarafa-Yusuf positioned herself as a unifying figure capable of ensuring stability within the party, stressing the need for deliberate leadership and continuity.
She also emphasized that her ambition goes beyond personal interest, describing it as a pathway to creating opportunities for future female leaders in Ogun State and Nigeria.
Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina: From Medical Missions to Political Mission
Bolaji Marie Odusina, a US-based paediatrician and humanitarian, has also formally declared her intention to run for governor in 2027.
Popularly known as “DeeDoc,” she has built a strong grassroots following through years of free medical outreach programs in rural Ogun communities.
Her transition into politics marks a shift from healthcare service delivery to governance.
With over three decades of experience in Nigeria and the United States, she has focused her advocacy on healthcare, maternal mortality, and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.
While her humanitarian work has earned her public goodwill, analysts note that she may face challenges in building a strong political structure and securing a viable party platform.
