Osun 2026: Incumbency faces federal might as Adeleke and Oyebamiji lead three-way gubernatorial race

Incumbent Governor Adeleke and APC's Oyebamiji lead the 14-party race for Osun State in August 2026 as federal might and incumbency collide.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 3:42 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Business Hallmark

The Shift in Political Platforms

The upcoming gubernatorial contest in Osun State features a transformed political landscape, most notably marked by the departure of Governor Ademola Adeleke from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). On December 9, 2025, Adeleke formally resigned from his former party, citing unresolved national leadership crises, and transitioned to the Accord Party. This move followed a rejection by certain blocs within the All Progressives Congress (APC), who feared his entry would disrupt their own internal gubernatorial ambitions. Adeleke secured the Accord Party ticket on December 10, 2025, winning 145 out of 150 delegate votes.

APC Selects Oyebamiji Amidst Internal Friction

The APC has positioned Bola Oyebamiji, a former commissioner and associate of Marine and Blue Economy Minister Gboyega Oyetola, as its primary contender. Oyebamiji’s emergence as a consensus candidate followed a screening process that resulted in the disqualification of heavyweight rivals, including Senator Iyiola Omisore and Senator Babajide Omoworare. While the party publicly presented a unified front through an affirmation motion moved by Barrister Kunle Adegoke (SAN), critics have alleged that the process was managed to clear the path for Oyebamiji, avoiding a competitive primary.

The Third Way and Gender Representation

Beyond the two dominant figures, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has fielded former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Salam Najeem Folasayo. Supported by former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, Najeem is campaigning on a platform of modesty and "politics without bitterness." The 2026 race also features a unique demographic milestone with the candidacy of 80 year old Mrs. Adeagbo Yemisi, the only female gubernatorial aspirant, running on the platform of the Action Democratic Party (ADP).