ABEOKUTA- AS the countdown to the 2027 general elections gathers momentum, political activities in Ogun State are in the upswing with no fewer than 15 aspirants, comprising 11 men and four women, jostling to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun, whose second term tenure will lapse on May 29, 2027.
Checks revealed that the race for the coveted Oke-Igbehin Government House is already attracting heavyweights across party lines, technocrats, and seasoned politicians, all positioning themselves for what promises to be a keenly contested succession battle.
Among the leading aspirants is Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, who currently represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the Senate.
Regarded as a frontrunner, Adeola is said to enjoy widespread support, including backing from a significant number of members of the State House of Assembly.
Though speculations persist about alleged presidential sympathy for his ambition, the senator has continued to consolidate his base, building strong political structures across the state in a bid to broaden his appeal.
Also in the race is Mr Gboyega Isiaka, a serving member of the House of Representatives and a three-time governorship candidate, alongside Mr Abiodun Akinlade, who represents Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency.
Other notable contenders include former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Dr Tunde Lemo; former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mr Sarafa Ishola; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Dimeji Bankole; Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun; Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; and Dr Tunji Oredipe.
From the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the 2023 governorship candidate, Mr Oladipupo Adebutu, popularly known as Lado, remains a formidable figure, maintaining firm control of the party structure in the state.
However, sources hinted that internal challenges within the PDP may affect his chances unless strategic realignments are made.
Also making waves is Mr Segun Showunmi, convener of the Alternative Movement, who has reportedly secured the backing of multiple political platforms, including the Labour Party, LP; Action Democratic Party, ADP; and Action Alliance, AA.
On the women’s front, the governorship race is equally gaining traction.
Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has re-entered active politics after years of absence, declaring her ambition on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. Her return has stirred significant political interest across the state.
Similarly, the current Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, is believed to be weighing her options, with campaign posters already circulating, suggesting growing support for her possible candidacy.
Others in the female category include veteran broadcaster, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, who has openly declared her ambition, and US-based physician, Dr Bolaji Odusina, whose grassroots medical outreach programmes have earned her considerable goodwill among rural dwellers.
Power shift to Ogun West
Meanwhile, agitation for power shift to Ogun West has continued to dominate political discourse, with many stakeholders arguing that the senatorial district, yet to produce a governor since the creation of the state in 1976, deserves a shot at the governorship seat in the interest of equity and fairness.
Findings also indicate that the APC may consider adopting a consensus arrangement in selecting its governorship candidate, a move seen by some as a strategy to manage internal competition.
Traditional rulers from Ogun West, led by the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, have also intensified consultations across the state to garner support for the region’s aspiration.
In addition, there are subtle religious considerations, with some Muslim groups advocating for a Muslim successor to Governor Abiodun. However, observers argue that religion has historically played a minimal role in the South-West’s political calculations.
As alignments and realignments continue, political watchers say the coming months will be critical in shaping the contours of the 2027 governorship race, with endorsements, consultations, and strategic positioning expected to define the battle ahead.
Stakeholders, however, cautioned against the imposition of candidates, warning that past experiences in 2011 and 2019, which led to internal crises and electoral setbacks, must not be repeated.
With the field already crowded and stakes rising, Ogun State appears set for a high-stakes political contest as the race to succeed Governor Abiodun gathers steam.
Reacting to the speculation that Senator Adeola may eventually emerge as a consensus candidate for the governorship election, a source close to his camp, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, said the ongoing political developments in the state reflect calculated moves rather than mere speculation.
The source emphasised that any serious political party, particularly the All Progressives Congress, APC, must consider popularity and public acceptance in choosing its candidate.
“With the current electoral process and the use of technology, any party that hopes to win must present a candidate who is genuinely popular among the people,” the source said.
He added that across Ogun State, there appears to be a growing consensus among residents regarding their preferred choice for the 2027 elections.
“If you move around, enter markets, speak to traders, or engage people in different parts of the state, about seven or eight out of every 10 people will mention the same name ‘Yayi.’ That sentiment is widespread,” he stated.
The source further noted that party leaders at both state and national levels are aware of this reality and would be cautious about presenting a candidate based on sentiments rather than electability.
“They know they cannot afford to go into an election with a weak candidate. That would mean unnecessary struggle,” he added.
On zoning and equity, he pointed out that the governorship has rotated mainly between Ogun East and Ogun Central, leaving Ogun West, which is yet to produce a governor since the state’s creation over 50 years ago, at a disadvantage.
“For eight years now, Ogun East has held the governorship, and before that, Ogun Central had its turn. Historically, power has rotated between the two zones,” he explained.
Drawing a parallel with developments in Edo State, the source said the APC had previously demonstrated a commitment to equity and fairness.
“In Edo, the party ensured that a candidate emerged from an area that had long been excluded from power. That shows the party can act in the interest of justice and balance,” he said.
He expressed optimism that a similar approach would be adopted in Ogun State, particularly in favour of Ogun West.
“If the APC truly stands for justice, equity, and fair play, then the current direction being discussed is appropriate. Ogun West deserves consideration, having not produced a governor since the state was created,” he noted.
While acknowledging that individuals are free to pursue their ambitions, the source stressed that the party and the people must ultimately align on a common goal.
“Everyone can have personal ambition, but the party has a stake, and the people of Ogun State also have a stake. If both are moving in the same direction, then that direction must be respected,” he concluded.
Abiodun not backing any aspirant —Akinmade
Reacting to an insinuation that Governor Abiodun is backing a candidate against others, the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Mr Kayode Akinmade, denied the speculation.
He said all the aspirants from the APC are all members of the party.
He noted that one of them will eventually emerge and whoever emerges, will fly the party flag and be supported by the party.