Politics
Four Female Politicians Eying Ogun Governor’s Seat
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, four prominent female politicians have emerged among aspirants seeking to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in what is shaping up as a highly competitive Ogun 2027 female governorship aspirants contest.
Governor Abiodun is expected to complete his second term in 2027, opening the race for new leadership at the Oke-Mosan Government House, Abeokuta, with over 15 aspirants reportedly eyeing the position across various political parties.
However, attention is increasingly shifting to four women whose ambitions could make history in Ogun State politics, where no woman has ever held the office of governor since the state’s creation in 1976.
Noimot Salako-Oyedele
The current Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, is regarded as one of the most strategically positioned contenders in the Ogun 2027 female governorship aspirants race. The 60-year-old engineer and real estate professional hails from Ogun West and currently serves in the Abiodun administration.
Although she has not formally declared, political posters and supporter movements have already begun promoting her candidacy, with many urging continuity of her administration’s policies.
Her supporters also point to long-standing political arguments that Ogun West has never produced a governor, which could influence zoning considerations.
However, analysts note that deputy governors in Nigeria often face difficulty succeeding their principals, a challenge she may need to overcome.
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has also entered the spotlight in the Ogun 2027 female governorship aspirants conversation.
A former senator and commissioner in Ogun State, she recently rejoined active politics under the All Progressives Congress (APC) after years away from frontline politics.
Her return has generated significant attention due to her political background, national exposure, and academic experience.
Supporters describe her as experienced and capable of driving development, while critics question her grassroots political connection after years abroad.
Modele Sarafa-Yusuf
Veteran broadcaster Modele Sarafa-Yusuf is another contender who has formally declared interest in the governorship race.
A former media adviser to Governor Abiodun, she brings years of communication and governance experience. She has emphasized inclusive leadership and political stability in her campaign messaging.
She has also highlighted the symbolic importance of potentially becoming the first female governor in Nigeria, while stressing that competence and leadership ability remain central to her ambition.
Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina
US-based medical practitioner Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina is the fourth notable female aspirant in the Ogun 2027 female governorship aspirants race.
Known for her humanitarian medical outreaches in rural communities, she recently declared her intention to run for governor, focusing on healthcare reform, maternal mortality reduction, and grassroots empowerment.
Although her political structure is still developing, analysts say she may appeal strongly on the basis of social impact and public service delivery.h
With four women now prominently in the race, political observers say Ogun State may be heading toward a historic election cycle that could challenge long-standing gender barriers in Nigerian politics.
