As the August 8, 2026, governorship election in Osun State draws nearer, the political landscape reveals a stark choice for the people: continuity of progress under Governor Ademola Adeleke or a return to the familiar hardships associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) era. The mission of the APC and its candidate, Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), appears clear to many observers which is to reclaim power at any cost, even if it means dragging Osun back into what residents often describe as an “episodic Egypt” of economic stagnation, punitive policies, and unfulfilled promises.
Former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, now a federal minister, has thrown his weight behind Oyebamiji, framing the APC’s bid as a path to “development” and “reforms.” Yet, the rhetoric rings hollow when viewed against the record. During the APC’s previous control of the state, first under Rauf Aregbesola and then Oyetola Osun grappled with delayed salaries, mounting debts, heavy taxation, and infrastructure projects that often benefited political cronies more than ordinary citizens. Workers suffered prolonged wage arrears, pensioners were left in distress, and the state’s economy felt the weight of over-centralized control and questionable fiscal decisions.
The APC’s approach has long been criticized for treating governance as a tool for political retribution. Non-supporters faced neglect in resource allocation, with development skewed toward loyal strongholds while others endured decay in roads, schools, and healthcare. This pattern fostered division rather than unity, turning governance into a zero-sum game where loyalty determined access to basic amenities.
Osun people, remember the era of hardship vividly: the pain of economic policies that squeezed the masses while elite circles thrived, the frustration of uncompleted projects, and the sense that the state was held hostage to federal patronage rather than local priorities.
In contrast, Governor Adeleke’s administration has charted a different course since 2022. Despite national economic headwinds, the state has recorded visible gains in road rehabilitation, education revitalization, agricultural support, and worker welfare improvements. Salaries are paid promptly, pension backlogs are being cleared, and infrastructure is spreading more equitably across senatorial districts.
Adeleke’s decision to align with the ACCORD reflects a pragmatic commitment to people-centered leadership over rigid party loyalty. His updated 5-Point Agenda promises further focus on job creation, security, and sustainable development—priorities that resonate with a populace tired of empty slogans.
The APC’s campaign, anchored by Oyebamiji’s background in finance and federal appointments, touts fiscal expertise and “Renewed Hope” alignment. But Osun voters are wiser now. They see through the recycled promises and recognize the risk of regression. A return to APC rule could mean renewed emphasis on centralized control, higher taxes to fund ambitious but poorly executed projects, and a continuation of the divisive politics that left many communities marginalized.
Osun people must wise up. The election is not merely about personalities or party logos, it’s about rejecting a system that punishes dissent and rewards sycophancy. Do not be swayed by federal might or ministerial endorsements. Recall the real costs of the APC’s past stewardship: the suffering of families under salary delays, the decay in rural areas, and the erosion of trust in government.
Vote for progress, not regression. Reject any attempt to drag Osun back into episodic hardship. Support leadership that has demonstrated accountability and inclusivity. The mission is transparent preserve the gains made and build on them. Osun deserves better than a return to Egypt; it deserves a future of genuine hope and shared prosperity.
The choice in 2026 is clear. Let wisdom prevail. Vote for Governor Ademola Adeleke for second term
E-signed: Hon Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and A Better Judicial System
