Osun 2026: Adeleke Will Defeat APC Candidate, Oyebamiji — Omisore’s Kinsman, Ojuade Vows

As political activities ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election gathered momentum as Hon. Bukola Ojuade, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who recently defected to the Accord Party, declared that Governor Ademola Adeleke remains the strongest contender in the forthcoming election.

Ojuade, who is a prominent member of Ex-national secretary of the APC, Senator Iyiola Omisore’s political group in Ile-Ife, expressed confidence that Governor Adeleke would emerge victorious against the candidate of APC, Munirudeen Oyebamiji.

Speaking, at a political stakeholders, Ojuade maintained that the incumbent governor’s performance over the last three years has positioned him favourably among the electorate and strengthened his chances ahead of the poll.

According to him, Adeleke’s administration has recorded significant achievements in key sectors including infrastructure development, healthcare services, education, workers’ welfare, and social intervention programmes aimed at improving the standard of living of residents across the state.

He argued that the governor’s style of leadership and close relationship with people at the grassroots level have further enhanced his political profile and popularity.

“The people of Osun can judge governance based on what they have witnessed in the last three years. Leadership should be measured by impact, and Governor Adeleke has continued to demonstrate commitment to development and the welfare of the people,” Ojuade stated.

He further noted that many residents of the state would assess candidates based on their records, performance, and ability to deliver meaningful development rather than political rhetoric.

Commenting on the opposition APC, Ojuade alleged that internal disagreements and political divisions within the party could weaken its chances in the election.

He specifically criticised the emergence of Oyebamiji as the APC governorship candidate, claiming that the choice did not reflect the interests of a significant number of party members across the state.

According to him, former Governor Gboyega Oyetola imposed a candidate whom he described as politically inexperienced and lacking broad acceptance within the party structure.

“The APC made a mistake in its selection process. Many loyal members and stakeholders were dissatisfied with how the candidate emerged. Such internal issues could affect the party’s chances in the election,” he said.

Ojuade further accused the APC of relying on propaganda rather than presenting practical solutions and programmes for the development of Osun State.

He argued that the opposition party lacked a clear policy direction and manifesto capable of addressing the economic and social challenges facing residents.

“The people do not want to return to difficult times. They want continuity in development, welfare programmes, and governance that directly impacts their lives,” he added.

He believed that the 2026 governorship election in Osun State may be one of the most competitive in recent years, considering the political influence of Adeleke, shifting alliances, and ongoing realignments with Adeleke structures.

With campaigns expected to intensify in the coming weeks, attention is expected to focus on how political parties mobilise grassroots support, strengthen internal cohesion, and present their programmes to voters.

Governor Adeleke, who is widely regarded as a dominant political figure in the state, is expected to campaign on his administration’s performance and existing support base, while opposition parties continue strategising to challenge the incumbent administration.

Meanwhile, Ojuade’s recent political movement has generated discussions in parts of Ile-Ife and beyond, particularly among supporters of Senator Iyiola Omisore’s political structure.

Hon. Chief Bukola Ojuade is a well-known political figure and community leader in Ife East Local Government Area of Osun State. He has remained active in grassroots politics and community mobilisation over the years.

Prior to his appointment as Senior Special Assistant to governor Ademola Adeleke, he served as the first councillor of Kurudu Ward in Bwari Area Council, Abuja, and also worked as a Senior Protocol Officer at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

He is also involved in private business ventures and entrepreneurship, having founded several enterprises, including Clasi Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Clasi Royal Table Water, Ojuade Farms Limited, Ojuade Feeds, Donets Environmental Services, and G-Time Bakery and Confectioneries.

Until his recent resignation from the APC in Ife East, Ojuade was considered a notable political leader within the party and a loyal associate of former Osun deputy governor and political leader, Senator Iyiola Omisore.

As the race for the Osun Government House gradually unfolds, analysts say voter sentiment, campaign strategies, and political alignments may ultimately determine the outcome of what is expected to be a keenly contested election.