Tensions have escalated between the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Ademola Adeleke following the emergence of Bola Oyebamiji as the party’s governorship candidate for the 2026 election.

In a statement on Sunday, the APC accused Governor Adeleke of being restless over Oyebamiji’s selection through a smooth consensus primary held in Osogbo on December 13, 2025. The party’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, said the governor’s reaction, expressed via his spokesman, to remarks attributed to APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, reflected unease within his camp.

Professor Yilwatda had reportedly stated that the APC could not afford to lose additional states following the recent Anambra governorship election, a comment that drew criticism from the Osun State Government.

Olabisi further criticized Adeleke’s administration, citing the dismissal of teachers and health workers employed under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola. He stated, “The people of Osun State are tired of mere edifices without adequate manpower in schools and hospitals. The APC’s candidate is prepared to contest and win the August 8, 2026 election.”

The APC also challenged Governor Adeleke to a televised debate with Oyebamiji, describing him as experienced and tested, while advising the governor to prepare for a possible transition of power.

In response, Governor Adeleke dismissed the APC’s allegations and reaffirmed his determination to seek re-election. Through a statement signed by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke described the APC’s comments as wishful thinking and insisted his administration was reversing the economic and social challenges left by the previous government.

He highlighted his people-oriented policies in workers’ welfare, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and inclusive governance, adding, “The people of the State are fully satisfied with the responsive governance being delivered by the present administration.”

Governor Adeleke also accused the APC of anti-democratic practices and questioned the party’s confidence in its popularity ahead of the 2026 polls

Osun APC, Governor Adeleke Clash Over 2026 Governorship Candidate

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