A former journalist and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State, ‘Mọdele Sarafa-Yusuf, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.

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

The former Nigerian Television Authority reporter added that she chose a public declaration to emphasise “responsibility rather than spectacle”.

She stated that her aspiration was driven by the need to manage growth, equity and continuity in Ogun State, noting that the state must not merely expand but develop inclusively.

“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 said.

Sarafa-Yusuf, who previously contested for the governorship ticket in 2022 but did not secure the nomination, said she accepted the outcome at the time and remained committed to party unity.

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

Addressing concerns about her relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun, she said she maintained a cordial and respectful relationship with the governor and other former leaders, stressing that her candidacy was not designed to undermine anyone.

On agitation for power shift to Ogun West, she described the concerns as real but cautioned against allowing zoning debates to escalate 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 “inclusion without escalation”.

She also warned against populist politics, noting that while it could mobilise support quickly, it might undermine governance and investor confidence if not properly managed.

On the gender question, Sarafa-Yusuf acknowledged the significance of her aspiration, observing that Nigeria is yet to elect a female governor. However, she stressed that her ambition was 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 experience in journalism, public administration and both the public and private sectors as assets she would deploy if elected.

“If I get the party’s ticket and go on to be elected, I will govern as an administrator — consultative but firm and disciplined. Institutions will be respected. Power will be exercised with restraint,” she said.

Sarafa-Yusuf added that her vision includes consolidating Ogun’s industrial base, empowering youth, modernising infrastructure and strengthening trust between government and citizens.

She expressed hope for an orderly and credible primary process, urging party stakeholders to give her aspiration “measured consideration” as consultations continue ahead of the 2027 polls.

(Punch)

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