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In a bold declaration that has intensified the political atmosphere in Osun State, All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji has predicted a decisive victory over incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming August 8 election, dismissing the administration’s efforts to maintain power through what he termed “propaganda.”
Speaking at an APC youth reconciliation summit held Sunday at the party’s secretariat in Osogbo, Oyebamiji, commonly referred to as “AMBO,” urged party members, particularly the youth wing, to actively counter narratives being spread against his candidature and the party.
“We must go back to start doing house-to-house, door-to-door awareness about the forthcoming poll and counter every narrative of the other parties even on the streets,” Oyebamiji stated. “Our opponents have started lying to the Osun people, you must break asunder their lies.”
The gubernatorial hopeful expressed confidence that the 2026 handover of power would mark a significant departure from the party’s 2022 electoral experience, which many APC members believe was marred by irregularities. “I want to assure you that 2026 will not be like 2022,” he emphasized, adding that international support, including from the American government, would bolster their cause.
Oyebamiji, who previously served as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), highlighted the critical role of youth in securing electoral success. He promised that his administration would prioritize youth development programs designed to prepare younger citizens for future leadership positions.
“Our government would focus on youth development in a bid to prepare them for the takeover of governance and leadership roles in the future,” he said, adding that special provisions and programs would be established for young people if elected.
Urging supporters against complacency, Oyebamiji employed a sports metaphor to describe their electoral position: “God has given us a goal post and set us up to play penalty on an empty net; despite this, we should work assiduously.”
The event also featured remarks from State APC Youth Leader Olagoke Akinwemimo, who praised Oyebamiji’s candidature as “perfect” and one that has “shattered the expectations of the opposition, who predicted division and failure within our party.”
Akinwemimo referenced the 2022 election, claiming the party was “denied victory through orchestrated electoral irregularities” while asserting that the APC youth structure in Osun remains “the most formidable in the struggle to reclaim the mandate.”
The upcoming gubernatorial race represents another chapter in Osun State’s competitive political landscape, where power has alternated between the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in recent years. Governor Adeleke, who took office in November 2022 after defeating then-incumbent Gboyega Oyetola, faces a significant challenge from the revitalized APC under Oyebamiji’s candidature.
Political analysts note that Osun State elections often serve as bellwethers for broader political trends in Nigeria’s southwestern region. The outcome could potentially influence political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As campaign activities intensify in the coming months, both parties are expected to focus heavily on economic development, infrastructure, and social welfare policies in a state that continues to face challenges of unemployment and resource constraints despite its rich cultural heritage and agricultural potential.
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18 Comments
The APC candidate’s confidence is understandable, but dismissing the incumbent’s efforts as ‘propaganda’ seems like a risky political move. Voters will want to see concrete plans and ideas, not just partisan rhetoric.
Yes, both sides should refrain from inflammatory language and instead present their visions clearly and transparently.
This election will be an interesting test of Osun State’s political landscape. I hope the campaigns focus on the real issues facing the region rather than engaging in mudslinging. Voters deserve a substantive debate on the path forward.
Absolutely. A fair and transparent process is essential for a healthy democracy.
The APC candidate’s call for grassroots mobilization is a smart strategy, but he’ll need to back it up with concrete policy proposals that resonate with voters. Dismissing the incumbent’s efforts as ‘propaganda’ could backfire if not handled carefully.
Agreed. Both sides should focus on presenting their visions for the state in a constructive manner.
Interesting political dynamics in Osun State. I’m curious to see how the upcoming election plays out between the incumbent and the APC challenger. It’s important that all sides present their platforms transparently and allow voters to make an informed choice.
Agreed, a fair and transparent electoral process is critical for democracy. Both candidates should focus on substantive issues rather than partisan rhetoric.
This election will be a pivotal moment for Osun State. I hope the candidates can move beyond partisan rhetoric and engage in a substantive debate on the key issues facing the region. Voters deserve to make an informed choice based on the merits of each platform.
Well said. Transparency and accountability from all parties involved will be crucial for a fair and credible election.
The APC candidate seems confident, but dismissing opponents’ claims as ‘propaganda’ could backfire if not backed by facts. It will be important to see how the campaigns unfold and whether the election is viewed as free and credible by all sides.
Valid point. Transparency and accountability from all parties involved will be crucial in this election.
The APC candidate’s confidence is understandable, but he’ll need to back it up with a clear, compelling vision for the state. Dismissing the incumbent’s efforts as ‘propaganda’ could be a risky strategy if not handled carefully.
Agreed. Both sides should focus on presenting their ideas and plans, rather than engaging in partisan attacks.
Interesting to see the APC candidate emphasizing getting supporters out door-to-door. Grassroots outreach can be an effective strategy, but the messaging needs to resonate with voters beyond just party affiliation.
Agreed, the candidates should focus on substantive policy proposals that address the key issues facing Osun State residents.
This election will be a test of Osun State’s political landscape. I hope the candidates can move beyond partisan rhetoric and engage in a substantive debate on the issues. Voters deserve to make an informed choice based on the merits of each platform.
Well said. A fair and transparent electoral process is critical for a healthy democracy.