Nigeria's independent online newspaper
Abimbola TookiAs the political thermometer begins to rise in Osun State ahead of the 2026 governorship election, the All Progressives Congress finds itself at a critical crossroads. With the governorship seat currently occupied by the increasingly popular Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party , the APC must field not just a candidate, but a political force capable of igniting grassroots support, uniting internal factions, and swaying the undecided middle class voters.
The incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, is not just dancing his way through politics anymore. His administration has shown signs of strategic focus, especially in civil service reforms, infrastructure development, and prompt salary payments.His “people-first” approach has won him loyalty among civil servants and informal voters.
This is his first real test at contesting for elective office. His association with former governor Oyetola, however, casts a long shadow, especially as many believe Oyetola underperformed and was politically shielded by Tinubu.Financial technocrat credentials may appeal to the elite.Faces tough competition from political giants in Osun West.Political Rating: ★★☆☆☆
X-Factor: Internal APC politics may frustrate his emergence unless there’s a unified consensus. If he secures the APC ticket without rancour, he stands an even chance.This contest would likely be the easiest for Adeleke. Oyebamiji’s association with Oyetola, poor grassroots visibility, and intra-zone rivalries put him at a disadvantage. Adeleke’s charisma and performance are likely to dwarf Oyebamiji’s appeal, except significant federal might is deployed.
Nigeria Latest News, Nigeria Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
2026: Osun APC forbids elders, apex leaders from coordinating for guber aspirantsThe Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has reiterated its directive outlawing some leaders of the party from serving as coordinators of governorship aspirants in the ongoing political development in the state.
Read more »
Osun 2026: APC will determine mode of screening for aspirantsDr Akin Ogunbiyi a gubernatorial aspirant in the Osun 2026 governorship election has hinted that screening method for multiple aspirants in the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the guber race will be determined by the party leadership.
Read more »
Osun 2026: APC crisis deepens as Basiru, Oyebamiji allegedly court AregbesolaThere are credible reports that two governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji and Ajibola Basiru, are already courting former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Read more »
Osun 2026: We are ready for guber polls — NNPP Chair, OdeyemiThe Osun State chapter of the Nigerian National Peoples Party, NNPP, has declared its readiness for the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state. The party made this announcement following information from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, that August 8, 2026, has been fixed for the gubernatorial election in Osun State.
Read more »
Osun 2026: Gov Adeleke’s aide writes Tinubu, seeks president’s neutrality in coming poll'Your love for a free and fair contest is known to all. Nobody will request you to impose him on the people. The clarion call on you is to be the father of all by allowing free contests among your sons. Osun people will then judge using their ballot papers.
Read more »
Ekiti 2026: APC factions clash over Oyebanji’s re-election ambitionThe All Progressive Congress, APC, Ekiti State chapter is currently enmeshed in controversy over endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term. It was gathered that a group of concerned APC elders and youths and led by Chief Olaofe Adeniran, has accused Gov.
Read more »