The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Ademola Adeleke have engaged in a war of words following the emergence of Bola Oyebamiji as the APC’s governorship candidate for the 2026 election. The APC accused Governor Adeleke of being uneasy about Oyebamiji’s candidacy, which was decided through a consensus primary held in Osogbo.
According to the APC’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, Governor Adeleke’s reaction to comments made by the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, reflects unease within the governor’s camp. Professor Yilwatda had stated that the APC could not afford to lose additional states, which drew criticism from the Osun State Government.
The APC also criticized Governor Adeleke’s administration, citing the dismissal of teachers and health workers employed by the previous administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola. The party claimed that the people of Osun State are dissatisfied with the current state of governance, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.
In response, Governor Adeleke dismissed the APC’s claims and reaffirmed his intention to seek re-election. He described comments attributed to Oyetola as “wishful thinking” and stated that his government enjoys the backing of the people due to its people-oriented policies. Governor Adeleke also accused the APC of resorting to anti-democratic practices and questioned the party’s confidence in its popularity ahead of the 2026 polls.
The APC has challenged Governor Adeleke to a televised debate with Oyebamiji, which the party believes will demonstrate its candidate’s preparedness to govern the state. The party advised Governor Adeleke to prepare for a transition of power, citing the need for effective governance in Osun State.
The exchange between the APC and Governor Adeleke highlights the intense political rivalry in Osun State ahead of the 2026 governorship election. The election is expected to be closely contested, with both parties seeking to win the support of the state’s electorate. As the campaign season progresses, it is likely that the rhetoric between the two sides will continue to escalate, with each party seeking to outmaneuver the other in the battle for political supremacy.
