As preparations toward the 2027 general election gradually gather momentum, the political atmosphere in Ogun State, popularly known as the Gateway State, is already filled with intense ambitions and strategic alignments. Several political actors across different parties have begun positioning themselves for the governorship seat currently occupied by Dapo Abiodun. By 2027, Governor Abiodun will complete his constitutionally allowed two-term tenure of eight years, thereby creating an opportunity for a new administration to emerge at the Oke-Mosan seat of power in Abeokuta. Investigations revealed that more than fifteen aspirants from various political parties are already showing interest in contesting for the number one political office in Ogun State. Among these aspirants, four female politicians are making bold moves to rewrite history by becoming the first woman to govern the state — and possibly join the list of female governors in Nigeria’s political history. A Political Barrier Yet to Be Broken in Ogun State Ogun State has historically produced notable female leaders in different positions of authority. The state recorded one of the earliest milestones in women’s political participation with the emergence of late Titilayo Ajanaku, who became the first elected female local government chairman in Nigeria at the old Abeokuta Local Government. The state has also produced female Speakers in the House of Assembly and several Deputy Governors.Salimot Badiru served for eight years under Gbenga Daniel from 2003 to 2011.Yetunde Onanuga served under Ibikunle Amosun between 2015 and 2019.Currently, Noimot Salako-Oyedele is serving as Deputy Governor in the administration of Governor Abiodun. Despite these achievements, the governorship position has remained occupied by men since the creation of Ogun State in 1976. Political observers believe the 2027 election may present another opportunity to break this long-standing political barrier. Noimot Salako-Oyedele – The Deputy Governor With Strategic Advantage As the sitting Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele is considered one of the most strategically positioned aspirants ahead of the 2027 election. The civil engineer and real estate professional from Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area in Ogun West has not officially declared her candidacy, but campaign posters bearing the message “Ogun 2027 – Let the Good Works Continue” have already surfaced in different parts of the state. Supporters of the deputy governor have also begun mobilization campaigns, insisting she has the experience required to continue the current administration’s policies. Her chances may also receive support from the zoning sentiment in the state, as Ogun West Senatorial District has never produced a governor since the state was created in 1976. However, political analysts note that deputy governors in Nigeria often struggle to succeed their principals, a situation sometimes described as the “Deputy Governor succession challenge”. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello – The Return of a Strong Political Figure Former senator and daughter of former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo,Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello has returned to active politics after many years away from the political scene. She previously served as Commissioner for Health in Ogun State between 2003 and 2007 before being elected Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District from 2007 to 2011. After losing her re-election bid in 2011, she relocated abroad and later built an academic career in the United States, where she attained the rank of professor. Her recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and declaration of interest in the 2027 governorship race generated significant political reactions across the state. Her supporters describe her as a firm and experienced leader capable of bringing national-level exposure to state governance. She has repeatedly emphasized people-focused development, accountability, and inclusive governance as major priorities. According to her, governance should be a continuous process built on institutional memory, competence, and compassion, while women should play active roles in decision-making rather than only serving as campaign mobilizers. Modele Sarafa-Yusuf – Veteran Broadcaster With Long-Term Political Ambition Veteran journalist and former Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Abiodun,Modele Sarafa-Yusuf has also declared interest in the 2027 governorship election. She previously resigned her advisory position to contest the party ticket in 2023, a move that political watchers interpreted as part of a long-term plan. Her intention to contest again was made public through an open letter addressed to members and leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State, where she emphasized the need for stable leadership, unity, and continuity in governance. Sarafa-Yusuf stated that Ogun State is richly blessed with industry, culture, and intellectual strength, but progress can only be achieved through deliberate leadership built on trust and balance. She also noted that her ambition is not only personal but aimed at opening doors for future generations of women in politics, stressing that her aspiration is based on competence and capacity rather than symbolism. Dr. Bolaji Marie Odusina – From Medical Outreach to Political Mission United States-based physician and humanitarian,Bolaji Marie Odusina, has formally announced her intention to contest the 2027 Ogun governorship election. Popularly known as DeeDoc, she has gained recognition through years of free medical outreach programs across rural communities in Ogun State. Her declaration marks a transition from humanitarian missions to political service, with focus on healthcare reform, maternal health, and grassroots economic development. Citing data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey conducted by theNational Population Commission, she highlighted the urgent need to address maternal mortality and limited access to healthcare services in rural areas. She explained that her experiences as a pediatrician with over three decades of practice in Nigeria and the United States have exposed her to the realities faced by ordinary citizens, motivating her decision to enter politics. Political analysts, however, believe her success will depend on building a strong political structure, securing party support, and converting public goodwill into electoral strength.
