The Digest:
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.
Sources: Vanguard News, Leadership
