Salako-Oyedele Ogun West senatorial race as Ogun Deputy Governor joins APC contest, intensifying political permutations ahead of 2027 elections
Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has formally entered the race for the Ogun West senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, setting off fresh political realignments within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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The race development has added a new dimension to the state’s evolving political landscape, following reports that her nomination forms were secured on her behalf by a third party on 30 April 2026.
Her entry comes shortly after the APC’s adoption of Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as its consensus governorship candidate, a decision that has already reshaped succession plans within the party.
With Adeola now positioned for the governorship ticket, attention has shifted to the senatorial seat he currently occupies, creating a competitive opening in Ogun West.
Salako-Oyedele’s emergence is seen as a significant development, with political observers noting that her candidacy introduces both strategic and symbolic weight to the contest, particularly amid growing calls for female representation in the Red Chamber.
At least three other aspirants, including Senator Gbolahan Dada, Waliu Taiwo, and Jimoh Ojugbele, are also reported to have obtained nomination forms, intensifying the race within the APC.
Party insiders suggest that while some stakeholders are pushing for a consensus arrangement to preserve unity, competing ambitions may make a smooth resolution more difficult.
Ogun State has not produced a female senator since 2011, when Senator Iyabo Obasanjo exited the Senate, a factor some political actors believe could influence negotiations within the party.
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As the 2027 election cycle draws closer, attention now turns to whether the APC can maintain cohesion or face internal contestation in one of its key senatorial districts.
