Osun 2026: Why Omisore is Our Best Bet
By Adabanija Abideen Olaolu
Reclaiming Osun: A Strategic Blueprint for APC’s Victory in 2026
As the political landscape of Osun State continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that the All Progressives Congress (APC) must act swiftly and decisively to reclaim power in the 2026 gubernatorial elections. With a wealth of grassroots experience and an unwavering dedication to the party, I feel compelled to share my thoughts on how we can ensure a victory that transcends party divisions and secures a brighter future for our state.
A Personal Call to Action
Before I go into the details of my strategy, I want to emphasize that these are my personal reflections, based on over a year of careful research, fieldwork, and deep connections within the political fabric of Osun. I am not here to push any individual over another for endorsement, but rather to share a blueprint that can help our great party return to power—stronger than ever.
This analysis assumes that, should Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, our esteemed party leader—decide not to re-contest the gubernatorial seat, as rumors have suggested, the alternative should be strategically sound and guaranteed to deliver victory. But make no mistake: if you choose to run again, Your Excellency, I believe you remain our best option for ensuring APC’s return to power, for reasons that I will outline below.
One candidate stands out as the most viable option to secure the future of APC in Osun: *Senator Iyiola Omisore*, a man who has both the political strength and the grassroots support to lead us to victory.
Here’s why:
1. A Commitment to One Term:
Electorates are fatigued by long tenures, and a commitment to serve only one term would be an attractive proposition, akin to the selling point that the PDP incumbents have utilized. This would not only reassure voters but also guarantee that power would shift to other regions once Omisore’s term concludes, meeting the aspirations of various factions.
2. Track Record of Service
Omisore’s tenure in office left behind a trail of achievements that can be leveraged as a powerful campaign tool. His established credibility and proven governance set him apart from potential new entrants to the race, making him a formidable candidate.
A Strong, Unified Ticket for Victory
In the event that other arrangements need to be explored, I propose a strategic, well-balanced ticket and office distribution that unites key regions and political factions in Osun. With the right people in the right positions, we can achieve an overwhelming victory.
1. Gubernatorial Ticket: Iyiola Omisore
As previously mentioned, Senator Omisore’s base in the Ife axis is critical to balancing the PDP’s stronghold in Ede. His political structure in Ife, Iwo, and Osogbo is unparalleled, and it is only through this structure that we can counter the PDP’s sway in key battleground areas. Omisore’s political influence here is deeply entrenched and would serve as an asset beyond our party’s own structure.
2. Deputy Ticket: Lekan Badmus (Osogbo)
To complement Omisore, we need a deputy who can connect with the youth, appeal to religious stakeholders, and bring added strength from the Osogbo axis. Lekan Badmus fits this profile perfectly. He is young, dynamic, and has significant influence through his father’s ties with religious leaders and opinion shapers. Furthermore, his Muslim background would bring balance to a Christian gubernatorial candidate, ensuring unity among all segments of the electorate.
3. Senatorial and Legislative Placements
In order to solidify our support across the state, the senatorial tickets should be distributed to key figures within the party:
– Central: Dotun Babayemi
– West: SRJ’s supporters
– East: Either Hon. Famurewa or Wole Oke (should he defect from the PDP).
Similarly, the positions of Secretary to the Government (SSG) and Federal Constituency representatives should be carefully balanced between Ede and Iwo, ensuring both regions feel fully represented and vested in the campaign’s success.
A Call to Action for Ede South
From my position in Ede, I can confidently say that we will not win in this area without strategic maneuvering. Ede’s voting pattern is well-known, and any attempts to sway voters through monetary inducements or superficial campaigns will fail. Here’s what we must do:
1. Stakeholder Engagement
A clear message must be sent to all political leaders and stakeholders in Ede: political posts, tickets, and appointments will no longer be automatic. They must deliver their respective wards and locations in order to earn these opportunities.
2. Electoral Strategy: Re-run or By-election in Ede
To strengthen our position, we should prepare for a re-run or by-election in Ede, halting the process as needed to realign our campaign. With my experience as part of the team behind the 2018 re-run, I am confident that we can execute this strategy successfully.
Conclusion: A Winning Strategy for Osun
In conclusion, I firmly believe that with the right strategy, leadership, and team in place, APC can reclaim Osun State in 2026. By carefully selecting candidates based on their influence, experience, and appeal, and by addressing local concerns with targeted action, we will ensure that Osun is returned to APC control. The plan outlined above is not just feasible, but one I believe guarantees success.
Let us come together, unified and strategic, to make this vision a reality.
Adabanija Abideen Olaolu
Ede South
