When former Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Munirudeen Oyebamiji, declared himself President Bola Tinubu’s “anointed candidate” for the 2026 governorship election, I could only shake my head in disbelief.
The reality on the ground differs sharply from that political fantasy. In a democracy, elections are not won by claims of anointment but by the support of the people. The era of relying solely on endorsements and godfatherism is fading. Osun voters have repeatedly shown they will not be taken for granted.
If any political anointing ever existed, it has clearly expired. Rather than reminding the public of a supposed endorsement, Oyebamiji should read the mood across Osun State. The people are focused on governance, development, and continuity, not recycled claims of being “anointed”.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration continues to enjoy significant goodwill across the state. From infrastructure projects to welfare programmes and improved public engagement, the governor has maintained a strong connection with the electorate. Any aspirant hoping to challenge him must present convincing alternatives, not old political slogans.
At this point, Oyebamiji should accept the obvious. Instead of chasing anointing that has lost its potency, he would better serve Osun by supporting Governor Ademola Adeleke’s reelection on 15 August 2026. That would be more productive than trying to revive a narrative most Osun residents have moved beyond.
Politics is decided at the ballot box, not in press statements. When the time comes, the people of Osun State, not any political “anointing”, will determine who occupies the Government House.
Even if you insist you remain President Tinubu’s anointed candidate, Governor Ademola Adeleke remains the preferred choice of the people of Osun State. No form of godfatherism can override that reality when the people decide.
Until then, the claim of remaining anointed candidate sounds less like a winning strategy and more like an attempt to keep an expired political narrative alive.
Signed:
Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and Judicial Reform
