As the 2026 Osun governorship election approaches, a coalition of indigenous groups in Osogbo, the state capital, is advocating for the next governor to hail from the city. The Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups, comprising several organizations, made this demand based on fairness, historical significance, and equitable representation within the state.
The group, which includes the Osogbo Development Action Group, Osogbo Progressive Youth Movement, and Osogbo Peace and Unity Advocacy, among others, noted that Osogbo has never produced a governor since the state’s creation in 1991, despite being the capital and economic hub. Omosola Olabode, Coordinator of the Osogbo Development Action Group, emphasized that Osogbo’s contributions to the state’s political and economic growth warrant its turn to produce the next governor.
The coalition cited Osogbo’s historical significance, population strength, economic relevance, and political participation as key reasons why it deserves the governorship slot. As the most populated city in Osun, Osogbo is the commercial hub where over 65% of the state’s daily economic activities occur. The city is also home to the Yoruba deity from which the state derives its name, making it a significant cultural and spiritual identity.
Furthermore, the coalition lamented the lack of major federal presence in Osogbo, including the absence of a federal higher institution, ministerial appointment, or ambassadorial representation. The group argued that a governor from Osogbo would be better positioned to manage the city’s rapid growth and infrastructural needs, given its status as the fifth fastest-growing city in southwestern Nigeria.
The coalition urged all political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, All Progressives Congress, and African Democratic Congress, to field Osogbo indigenes in their primaries. They assured that any party presenting an Osogbo indigene as its candidate would receive overwhelming support and votes from the city’s residents.
The demand by the Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups highlights the need for equitable representation and fair distribution of political power in Osun State. As the 2026 governorship election draws near, the group’s advocacy may influence the decision-making process of political parties and shape the outcome of the election. With Osogbo’s significant contributions to the state’s economy and culture, the city’s bid for the governorship slot is likely to be a major talking point in the run-up to the election.