Veteran Journalist, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf Declares For Ogun Gubar

Former special adviser on information and strategy to Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In an open letter addressed to APC leaders, members and stakeholders in Ogun state and shared on her X handle on Thursday, Sarafa-Yusuf said her decision followed “deep reflection and wide consultation”.

“Each generation is tested by history in different ways. Ours is being tested by how well we manage growth, equity, and continuity — how we ensure that Ogun state does not merely expand but truly develops; not just for some, but for all,” she wrote.

The veteran broadcaster and native of Iperu Remo, referenced her unsuccessful bid for the APC governorship ticket in the build-up to the 2023 election, noting that she accepted the outcome without destabilising the party.

She said her current ambition is not driven by “unfinished business” but by the evolving political risks in the state, including potential party fractures.

Addressing key concerns, the aspirant pledged to maintain a “cordial and respectful relationship” with Abiodun, whom she described as the party leader.

“This is not a candidacy designed to undermine any of our leaders or rewrite the past. It is designed to protect what works and improve what must be improved — without rupture,” she said.

On the issue of zoning, particularly agitations from Ogun west senatorial district, Sarafa-Yusuf called for “inclusion without escalation”, warning that unmanaged grievances could destabilise the state.