Osun 2026: APC Governorship Race Heats Up as Nine Aspirants Submit Nomination Forms

By Zainab Uzomah

The contest for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Osun State has formally begun, with nine aspirants on Monday thronging the party’s national secretariat in Abuja to submit their nomination and expression-of-interest forms. Their appearance signaled the start of what is expected to be one of the most competitive primaries ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

Party leaders, while receiving the aspirants, reiterated APC’s commitment to a transparent, credible process. They urged all contenders to abide by the rules, maintain decorum, and allow a level playing field as the primaries draw near.

With the Osun governorship poll fixed for August 8, 2026, the APC has scheduled its primary for December 13, 2025. Screening and other preparatory activities have already commenced.

The nine aspirants battling for the ticket include:

Former Deputy Governor and ex-National Secretary of the party, Senator Iyiola Omisore;

Development financier Babatunde Hareter Oralusi;

Former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji;

Former PDP stalwart, Oyedotun Babayemi;

Ex-Deputy Governor Benedict Olugboyega Alabi;

Insurance expert and corporate executive, Dr. Akinade Akanmu Ogunbiyi;

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adegoke Rasheed Okiki Adekunle;

The only female aspirant and former lawmaker, Dr. Mulikat Abiola Jimoh;

and Senator Babajide Omoworare,
currently Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character.

Speaking to journalists, Omisore declared himself a “superior alternative” to the present administration, citing his governance experience and political pedigree as key strengths that set him apart in the crowded field.

Also addressing reporters, Alabi dismissed rumours that the party had already settled on a preferred aspirant. He confirmed receiving the blessings of former governor and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, before entering the race but insisted the primary would be open, competitive, and transparent.

Beyond political strategy, the aspirants painted a picture of a state in urgent need of renewed direction. They highlighted gaps in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and governance. Alabi, in particular, accused the current administration of neglecting critical sectors, describing it as a “glaring lack of commitment to the welfare of Osun citizens.”

Oyebamiji dismissed claims of backing from political godfathers. He said nobody was supporting him except the APC members and the people of Osun. While speaking of his political feats, he said his strength comes from the grassroots, not from political camps or influential individuals.

With barely days to the screening exercise and weeks to the primary, tension is mounting within the party. As campaign machinery shifts into full gear, expectations remain high, alliances are forming, and the battle for the APC ticket is already shaping up to be a defining moment in Osun’s political landscape.