The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State faces intense discussions over choosing its next governorship candidate, particularly regarding whether the candidate should come from the West Senatorial District.
This debate is especially prominent as the party anticipates the 2026 elections.
Former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, who currently serves as the Minister of Blue Economy, holds the right of first refusal for the governorship seat. However, if Oyetola chooses not to run for re-election, party stakeholders are leaning towards zoning the slot to Osun West, the home of the current Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, Ademola Adeleke.
Historically, Osun West has been underrepresented in the governorship position. Apart from the late Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who served as the state’s first civilian governor, no one from the West District has held the position until Senator Ademola Adeleke’s election in 2022. On the other hand, Osun Central has produced Governors Chief Bisi Akande (4 years), Gen. Olagundoye Oyinlola (7 years), and Oyetola (4 years), contributing 15 years of leadership, while Osun East was led by Rauf Aregbesola for eight years.
In response to these dynamics, a source within the APC noted that there is growing agitation to have a candidate from Osun West run against the incumbent governor in 2026, ensuring a balanced contest.
APC chieftain, Oluomo Sunday Akere, revealed that if Oyetola does not seek a second term, the party will focus on selecting a candidate from Osun West.
This situation reflects the ongoing political maneuvering within the APC, as the party works to solidify its position ahead of the next gubernatorial race.
CREDIT: Allneeds, THE NATION
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