The All Progressives Congress (APC) Osun State chapter has officially declared its unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s preferred candidate in the forthcoming Osun governorship election, quelling rumours that the President is backing the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Senator Ajibola Bashiru, the National Secretary of the APC, made the assertion on Wednesday during an interactive session with the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). He categorically stated that whatever directive comes from President Tinubu concerning the Osun governorship race is final and binding on the party members.
“Whatever President Tinubu says on issues of Osun stands. We can afford to follow the President blindfoldedly,” Bashiru declared.
“He takes decisions from the position of wisdom and the position of what will advance the larger interest of the progressives. His leadership is guided by a clear vision for the advancement of the party and the nation.”
This statement comes amid widespread speculation fuelled by reports that the President may be lending his open support to Governor Ademola Adeleke of the PDP, who is seeking re-election. Some aggrieved members within the APC in Osun State have expressed concerns that such a stance could significantly undermine the party’s chances and demoralise its base in the lead-up to the election.
According to New Daily Prime, dissenting voices within the party have warned that Tinubu’s perceived backing of Adeleke threatens to jeopardise the APC’s prospects in a state considered pivotal in the southwest region.
However, Senator Bashiru dismissed these concerns as unfounded, insisting that the party remains united and resolute in its commitment to its chosen candidate.
The National Secretary went further to praise the present administration under President Tinubu, highlighting the widespread confidence Nigerians especially APC members have in the policies and leadership of the President.
“Our administration is committed to delivering progress and prosperity for all Nigerians, and this confidence is reflected in the unity we see within our party,” he added.
The Osun governorship election, scheduled to take place later this year, is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the southwest. Both the APC and PDP are mobilising their structures and supporters in preparation for a keenly contested battle, with the APC determined to reclaim the governorship from the PDP after previous losses.
Senator Bashiru’s assurance signals that the APC in Osun remains firmly aligned with President Tinubu’s vision, underscoring the importance of party discipline and cohesion as critical to electoral success.
