As Osun State gears up for its 2026 gubernatorial election, the political landscape is at a pivotal moment. With the general elections of 2027 drawing closer, the outcomes in Osun will likely set the tone for national political currents ahead of the next presidential contest.
The state is currently in a state of political uncertainty, with no clear or dominant direction. This fluidity is evident to all observers.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), Osun’s primary opposition party, is still grappling with the fallout from its surprising defeat in the 2022 gubernatorial race. The party’s lack of cohesion and inability to assert itself as an effective opposition has left it struggling to regain its footing.
Rather than rallying under pressure, the APC appears stagnant, leaving the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to consolidate power. Unless the APC presents a compelling alternative to the current governance, Osun risks sinking deeper into political and socio-economic stagnation.
A low voter turnout in 2026 looms as a real possibility. Even politically active states like Ondo recently recorded a dismal 27% turnout, a figure that starkly contrasts with the progressive values traditionally upheld in Yoruba politics.
In the 2022 election, APC failed to read the political landscape effectively, leaving many feeling abandoned. The party’s lack of strategy and accommodation led to its defeat, with some attributing the outcome to divine retribution for its complacency.
As the 2026 elections approach, APC must carefully address zoning for its governorship candidate to avoid a fractious primary that could have severe electoral consequences.
The PDP, with the advantage of incumbency, is likely to present a unified front. To counter this, APC’s candidate must embody unity and experience, rallying both party members and the electorate. The party must also shed any premature overconfidence and adopt an inclusive and strategic approach.
Voices Within APC
Tajudeen Lawal, APC’s state chairman, remains optimistic. He argues that the current administration’s performance provides an opening for the APC to stage a comeback.
Former Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Bola Oyebamiji, urges the party to analyze its strengths and weaknesses from past elections and deploy effective strategies. He believes that with continued improvement, APC can reclaim power.
Ex-Senator Babajide Omoworare emphasizes the need for unity and fairness within the party. He critiques the current reward system, advocating for a transparent and just approach to strengthen the party’s internal cohesion.
Dotun Babayemi, another prominent party figure, highlights the APC’s grassroots strength and recent successes in other states as indicators of its resilience. He is confident that addressing internal issues will position the party for victory.
Olalekan Badmus, a former commissioner and now an executive at the Nigerian Ports Authority, shares a similar optimism. He notes the party’s ongoing consultations and grassroots activities aimed at regaining momentum.
The Road Ahead
Despite its challenges, APC’s prospects are far from bleak. Winning the 2026 election will require more than promises; it will demand strategic vision, adaptability, and a deep connection with the electorate.
To succeed, the party must seize new opportunities, refresh its approach, and rebuild trust with voters. By doing so, APC can transform its current challenges into a foundation for renewed relevance and strength in Osun politics.
In the spirit of genuine democracy, it’s time for APC to confront its realities, evolve, and focus on delivering meaningful leadership to the people of Osun State.
