As the race toward the Osun governorship election gathers momentum, the political atmosphere in the state is becoming increasingly intense.
What initially appeared to be a straightforward contest among political parties is now evolving into a complex political battle shaped by internal disputes, legal challenges, and strategic alignments.
At the center of the unfolding drama is the internal crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Prior to the party’s primaries, tensions had already begun to surface among aspirants jostling for the party’s governorship ticket.
One of the most notable figures affected by the process was former governor and senior party stalwart, Senator Iyiola Omisore.
Stylishly and somewhat controversially, Omisore was disqualified from participating in the APC governorship primaries. The decision reportedly left him deeply dissatisfied, especially given his long-standing involvement in the party and his political stature in Osun State. At the time, it appeared the matter had been laid to rest as party leaders moved ahead with their internal processes.
Following the primaries, the APC launched its governorship campaign, signaling the beginning of its formal push to retain power in the state. Many observers believed the internal disagreements had been quietly settled in the interest of party unity.
However, in a dramatic twist, Senator Omisore has now taken the matter to court, challenging the outcome and process of the APC primaries. His legal action has introduced a new dimension to the political contest, one that could potentially reshape the landscape of the election.
The twist there is that if the court finds merit in the case and rules that the primaries were flawed, there is a possibility that the APC’s candidate could face disqualification. Such an outcome would significantly alter the balance of the race and open new opportunities for rival parties.
For the opposition, particularly the Accord Party, this development represents a strategic advantage. The ongoing legal battle within the APC highlights the level of turbulence within the party at a critical moment when unity and coordination are essential for a strong electoral campaign.
Meanwhile, attention is also turning toward Governor Ademola Adeleke, whose political trajectory has taken an interesting path. After previously being associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adeleke made the decision to continue his political journey under the Accord platform. The move, according reflects his commitment to maintaining political independence while focusing on governance.
Despite the political tension surrounding the election, the governor’s performance in office will ultimately play a decisive role in shaping public perception. I can boldly say his administration’s efforts in governance and development will speak louder than political rhetoric.
At this stage, the Osun governorship contest is shaping up to be more than just a routine election. With legal battles unfolding, internal party disagreements surfacing, and multiple parties positioning themselves strategically, the race is gradually transforming into a three-dimensional contest involving the ACCORD, APC, and other political platforms.
What remains certain is that the coming weeks will be critical. The court’s decision on Omisore’s challenge could significantly influence the direction of the race and potentially redefine the political calculations of all parties involved.
For now, the people of Osun State watch closely as events continue to unfold, knowing that the final outcome may depend not only on campaign promises and political alliances but also on the legal battles currently shaping the field.
E-signed: Hon Comrade James Onifade
DG, Osogbo Accord Media Force (OAMF)
