The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has officially entered the race for the Ogun West Senatorial District in the 2027 elections. This development sets the stage for renewed political realignments and intensified consultations within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Nomination Forms Obtained
It was gathered that Salako-Oyedele obtained her nomination and expression of interest forms through a proxy on April 30. This action signals her intention to contest for the Red Chamber seat. Her entry comes in the wake of the APC’s adoption of Senator Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) as the consensus governorship candidate. This development has reshaped political calculations across the state and created a perceived vacuum in the Ogun West senatorial slot.
Political Context
With Adeola’s emergence as the party’s governorship flagbearer, attention has now shifted to who will succeed him in the Senate. Multiple aspirants are already jostling for the position. Aside from the deputy governor, other contenders reportedly in the race include Senator Gbolahan Dada, Waliu Taiwo, and Jimoh Ojugbele. All of them have obtained nomination forms.
Party stakeholders say the rising number of aspirants has complicated consensus-building efforts. However, some factions are reportedly backing Salako-Oyedele, citing gender inclusion and regional balance. It is also noted that Ogun West has not produced a female senator since 2011, when Senator Iyabo Obasanjo left the Red Chamber. This factor is believed to strengthen calls for her candidacy.
Broader Implications
Political observers say the unfolding contest reflects the broader implications of the APC’s zoning and consensus arrangements ahead of the 2026/2027 electoral cycle. There are concerns about maintaining internal unity. Sources within the party suggest that a negotiated consensus may still be possible to prevent internal fractures and preserve cohesion within the Ogun APC structure.
Candidate Profile
Salako-Oyedele is a UK-trained Civil and Public Health Engineer with an MSc from Imperial College London. She hails from Ota in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area and is said to enjoy strong support within both the Awori and Yewa political blocs.
