Osun 2026: APC, Adeleke Trade Words Over Oyebamiji Candidacy

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Ademola Adeleke have traded accusations following the emergence of Bola Oyebamiji as the party’s governorship candidate for the 2026 election.

In a statement on Sunday, the APC accused Governor Adeleke of being unsettled by Oyebamiji’s emergence through what it described as a smooth consensus primary held in Osogbo on Saturday, December 13, 2025. The party’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, said the governor’s response—issued through his spokesman to comments allegedly made by APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda—suggested growing anxiety within the governor’s camp.

Professor Yilwatda had reportedly remarked that the APC could not afford to lose more states following the recent governorship election in Anambra State, a statement that drew criticism from the Osun State Government.

The APC also criticized the performance of the Adeleke administration, alleging poor governance and pointing to the dismissal of teachers and health workers employed under the previous administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. The party claimed residents were dissatisfied with what it called “structures without adequate manpower” in schools and hospitals.

The APC further challenged Governor Adeleke to a televised debate with Oyebamiji, whom it described as experienced and capable, and advised the governor to prepare for a change in leadership ahead of the August 8, 2026 governorship election.

In response, Governor Adeleke dismissed the APC’s claims and reaffirmed his intention to seek a second term, expressing confidence that he would defeat Oyebamiji with the support of the people. In a statement signed by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, the governor described remarks attributed to Oyetola at the APC primary as unrealistic and politically motivated.

Adeleke characterized the APC’s previous administration as anti-people, alleging that Osun State was left with serious economic and social challenges when he assumed office in 2022. He maintained that his government enjoys broad public support due to its focus on workers’ welfare, infrastructure development, healthcare, education and inclusive governance.

“The people of Osun State are fully satisfied with the responsive governance being delivered by the present administration,” the statement said.

The governor also accused the APC of engaging in anti-democratic practices and questioned the party’s confidence in its popularity ahead of the 2026 polls, insisting that his administration is reversing past setbacks and restoring dignity to governance in the state.

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