By Ismaeel Aleem
A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has expressed confidence that the party will oust the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2026 governorship election, scheduled for 8 August.
Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye stated that the people of Osun are eager for the APC’s return to power, citing dissatisfaction with the PDP-led administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
He dismissed concerns that the growing number of APC governorship aspirants could fracture the party, asserting that unity and strategic leadership will ensure victory.
He highlighted the pivotal roles of APC National Leader Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and State Chairman Tajudeen Lawal in selecting a credible candidate.
“Akande, Oyetola, and Lawal, working with stakeholders from ward to state level, will pick the best candidate from our long list of aspirants,” he said, noting their experience in ensuring a fair process.
He acknowledged the qualifications of the 10 aspirants, including Bola Oyebamiji, Senator Babajide Omoworare, Dotun Babayemi, former Deputy Governor Benedict Alabi, Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, and Kunle Adegoke (SAN), but stressed that only one will emerge.
Oyintiloye urged aspirants to rally behind the chosen candidate, describing the election as a “must-win battle” for the APC.
To maintain discipline, the APC State Working Committee (SWC), in a statement by spokesperson Kola Olabisi, introduced strict guidelines to curb derogatory remarks among aspirants’ supporters.
The SWC banned party executives from coordinating campaigns and warned against defamatory content in media, threatening sanctions for violations.
The committee also prohibited the use of revered leaders’ names to endorse candidates, aiming to prevent internal discord and ensure cohesion ahead of the primaries, set for 24 November to 15 December 2025.
Among the aspirants, Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, outlined plans to address Osun’s infrastructural deficits, particularly in rural areas, to boost job creation and economic stability.
Having consulted 21 of Osun’s 30 local government areas, Oyebamiji reported overwhelming support, reinforcing the APC’s grassroots momentum.
He affirmed the unity among aspirants, stating, “We have agreed to support whoever emerges as the candidate.”
Oyintiloye praised Akande, Oyetola, and Lawal for maintaining party unity, attracting defectors from the PDP, and fostering a cohesive front.
