Ogun 2027: 11 Men, 4 Women Eye Governor Abiodun’s Seat

No fewer than 15 aspirants- 11 men and four women- are jostling to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State’s 2027 governorship election. Leading contenders include Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), who enjoys widespread support and is considered a frontrunner, alongside Rep. Gboyega Isiaka, former CBN Deputy Governor Tunde Lemo, former Speaker Dimeji Bankole, and Ministers Wale Edun and Bosun Tijani.

On the women’s front, Professor Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, broadcaster Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, and Dr. Bolaji Odusina are in the race. The contest is also fueling agitation for a power shift to Ogun West, which has never produced a governor since the state’s creation in 1976.

Key Points:

The race features a mix of seasoned politicians, technocrats, and first-time aspirants across party lines.
Senator Adeola is widely speculated as a possible consensus candidate, with supporters citing his popularity across the state.
The agitation for Ogun West to produce the next governor is gaining momentum, with traditional rulers intensifying consultations.
On the women’s front, Professor Obasanjo-Bello’s return to politics has stirred significant interest.
Political watchers caution against candidate imposition, warning of past crises in 2011 and 2019 that led to electoral setbacks.

With over a year to the election, the Ogun governorship race is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest, with zoning, gender representation, and popularity set to define the battle ahead.

Sources: Vanguard News, Leadership