Nigeria: 15 aspirants vie for Ogun governor seat
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
As the 2027 general elections approach, Ogun State is heating up with 15 aspirants, including 11 men and 4 women, jostling to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun. The coveted Oke-Igbehin Government House seat is attracting heavyweights from various parties, technocrats, and seasoned politicians.
Leading contenders include Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), regarded as a frontrunner with widespread support; Mr Gboyega Isiaka, a serving House of Representatives member; and Mr Abiodun Akinlade, representing Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituity.
Other notable aspirants are former CBN Deputy Governor Dr Tunde Lemo, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK Mr Sarafa Ishola, and PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate Mr Oladipupo Adebutu (Lado).
On the women’s front, Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello has declared her ambition on the APC platform, while Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele is considering a run. Others include veteran broadcaster Modele Sarafa-Yusuf and US-based physician Dr Bolaji Odusina.
Agitation for power shift to Ogun West is gaining traction, with stakeholders arguing the senatorial district deserves a shot at the governorship seat. The APC may adopt a consensus arrangement to select its candidate, considering internal competition and popularity.
With endorsements and strategic positioning expected to define the battle ahead, stakeholders caution against imposing candidates, warning against repeating past mistakes that led to internal crises and electoral setbacks. Ogun State is set for a high-stakes contest as the race to succeed Governor Abiodun gathers steam.
