Osun 2026: APC Candidate to Emerge Through Affirmation, Says Okpebholo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed that its candidate for the 2026 Osun State governorship election will emerge through an affirmation process. This was disclosed by Governor Monday Okpebholo, Chairman of the party’s governorship primary election committee, during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Osogbo, the state capital. The meeting was convened ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for December 18 in Osogbo.

Governor Okpebholo said the approach was aimed at fostering unity, transparency, and internal cohesion within the party, while ensuring a peaceful and credible primary exercise. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully with the primary committee to avoid rancour and strengthen the party’s preparations for the 2026 election.

APC Explains Affirmation and Consensus Process

Addressing party leaders, aspirants, and delegates, Governor Okpebholo explained that the governorship primary would be conducted through consensus, culminating in affirmation by accredited delegates. According to him, the process reflects the collective decision of party stakeholders rather than a competitive ballot.

He stated that a total of 1,660 accredited delegates would be required to converge at the designated venue to affirm the party’s candidate. Okpebholo emphasised that only properly accredited delegates would be allowed entry, describing the measure as essential to ensuring fairness, accountability, and orderliness during the exercise.

The committee chairman added that transparency remained a core priority, noting that the meeting was organised to publicly brief stakeholders on the modalities guiding the primary. He stressed that the party was determined to demonstrate internal discipline and unity as it prepares to reclaim Osun State.

Aspirants, Disqualifications, and Party Positions

The stakeholders’ meeting was attended by both cleared and disqualified aspirants, including former Osun State Deputy Governor Benedict Alabi, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly Timothy Owoeye, and APC State Chairman Tajudeen Lawal. Also present was the former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, widely regarded as the leading aspirant.

Oyebamiji and former Ifelodun State Constituency lawmaker Mulikat Abiola had earlier been cleared by the APC screening committee to contest the primary. However, seven other aspirants, including former APC National Secretary Iyiola Omisore, were disqualified during the screening exercise conducted at the party’s national headquarters.

Despite the disqualifications, party leaders at the meeting called for calm and cooperation, encouraging all members to prioritise the party’s collective interest over personal ambitions as the primary date approaches.

Calls for Unity Ahead of the Primary

Governor Okpebholo appealed to party stakeholders, leaders, aspirants, and delegates to support the primary committee and comply with all guidelines issued for the exercise. He said unity within the APC was critical to achieving its goal of returning Osun State to what he described as “purposeful and progressive leadership.”

Earlier, the co-chairman of the primary committee and Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Ayedatiwa, also addressed the gathering. He urged Osun APC members to set aside their differences and work collaboratively with the primary committee to ensure a smooth and credible process.

Both leaders expressed confidence that a peaceful primary would strengthen the party’s position ahead of the 2026 governorship election and present a united front to the electorate.