Oyebamiji vs Adeleke: Political Clash Intensifies in Osun State

A fresh political dispute has emerged in Osun State, Nigeria, as the campaign organization of Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the August 15, 2026 election, accused Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration of orchestrating a sustained propaganda campaign ahead of the polls.

The AMBO Media Fronts, in a statement signed by its coordinator Adebayo Adedeji, alleged that the state government was preparing to deploy negative narratives across multiple media platforms to damage Oyebamiji’s public image. The group claimed the strategy involved disseminating falsehoods and malicious narratives through newspapers, radio, television, and social media. “The objective is to tarnish the image of a gentleman politician whose governorship aspiration continues to gain remarkable momentum,” the statement said. It further alleged that previous attempts to link Oyebamiji to wrongdoing had failed, prompting a coordinated smear campaign intended to persist until election day.

Adedeji urged Osun residents to remain vigilant and disregard what he termed “baseless publications and broadcasts,” describing the alleged strategy as misleading to the electorate. He also called on the state government to focus on its performance in office, raising questions about the utilization of certain federal funds and broader economic conditions in the state. “These are the issues that matter to the people—not contrived propaganda against a credible alternative,” the statement added.

The Adeleke campaign organization rejected the allegations, stating that no amount of propaganda could alter Oyebamiji’s past record in public office. In its response, the organization said Osun residents were aware of the candidate’s previous roles in government, including his tenure in state agencies and as commissioner. “We have been flaunting Governor Adeleke’s achievements across major towns in Osun State and across sectors,” the group said.

It also issued thirty accountability questions directed at Oyebamiji, covering asset management, financial decisions, and administrative actions during his time in office. Among the concerns were allegations relating to the sale of state assets, management of public funds, pension obligations, and decisions taken in various capacities. The campaign also questioned his role in past economic policies and his leadership positions at state and national levels, including oversight of waterways. “We urge Mr. Oyebamiji to be man enough to own up to his past. Voters should assess candidates based on their records,” it said.

The intensifying exchange underscores the high stakes of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, with both camps trading accusations as they seek to shape public perception ahead of the vote.