The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will emerge victorious in the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Oyetola, who made the statement on Monday during an event marking his 71st birthday in his hometown of Iragbiji, attributed his optimism to the current unity within the APC in Osun. He called on party members to remain resolute and united to ensure the party’s success at the polls.
The former governor of Osun State was joined at the event by several prominent dignitaries, including the Asiwaju Musulumi of South-West, Edo, and Delta states, Dr Olatunde Badmus, as well as governorship hopefuls such as the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, and Prince Dotun Babayemi.
“By God’s special grace, our party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming 2026 gubernatorial election. I thank God for the way things are going with our party, how we have been able to stand in unity. I want to encourage us to continue in that suit and ensure that peace and unity reign in the party, because that is how we can emerge victorious in 2026,” Oyetola said.
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Reaffirming his commitment to the APC’s success, Oyetola also advised young people across Osun to remain focused, avoid drug abuse, and stay away from political violence. He urged them to fear God and pursue their goals with integrity and hard work.
“We are doing our own quota; I encourage you to do yours as well. To the youth, I want you to be focused and dedicated to your work. Fear God, for it is God who earned me the position I am in today. Don’t be involved in thuggery. We didn’t get involved in drug abuse before attaining this height. Please stay away from drugs because they only lead to mental health issues,” he advised.
During the event, the Chief Imam of Offa, Alhaji Muideen Salman, delivered a sermon emphasising the importance of forgiveness, unity, and peaceful coexistence.
Osun State is set to hold its governorship election on 8 August 2026. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke is widely expected to seek re-election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Meanwhile, several APC aspirants have declared their intention to contest the party’s ticket, raising concerns over potential internal rifts. However, the party leadership has assured that the primary process will be managed in a way that preserves party unity and strengthens its position ahead of the election.
