Community leaders in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, are intensifying their campaign for an indigene to occupy the governorship seat in the 2026 election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the governorship election for August 8, 2026. Despite Osogbo’s significant role in the state’s politics over the past 34 years, no native of the town has ever held the position of governor.
High Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, the Baale of Gbodofon and Chairman of the Council of Baales in Osogbo, revealed that traditional and community leaders have united to push for their long-held aspiration. He applauded the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, for establishing the Osogbo Action Committee and the Osogbo Elders Council, which have successfully bridged divisions among stakeholders in the town. All Baales in Osogbo are now united behind this cause, with the full support of the Elders Council, to ensure that Osogbo produces the next governor.
Prince Adeleke Oduola Ibiloye, Chairman of the Osogbo Elders Council, noted that Osogbo has consistently supported candidates from other parts of the state in previous elections. He emphasized that it is now time for the town to be reciprocated. “We have always stood by others in their political pursuits. Now, it is Osogbo’s turn, and we are prepared to make it happen,” Ibiloye declared. Several prominent indigenes are already positioning themselves to contest under the platforms of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The leaders expressed confidence that the 2026 election will finally produce the first Osogbo-born governor in the state’s history. This development is significant, given the town’s substantial contribution to the state’s political landscape. The community’s unified effort underscores their determination to have an indigene occupy the governorship seat. As the election approaches, the people of Osogbo are poised to make their voices heard, and their demand for representation may soon be realized.
