The Forum of All Local Government Chairmen from Osun West Senatorial District, under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for the 2026 governorship ticket to be zoned to their district. This appeal, however, hinges on former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola opting out of the race.
In a communiqué issued after a meeting in Iwo, Osun State, on Wednesday, the group underscored Osun West’s strategic importance to the APC’s electoral success. The meeting, attended by 41 former local government chairmen, emphasized that Osun West has historically been sidelined in producing a state governor since Osun’s creation.
Signed by Aderemi Abbas, former Chairman of Irewole Local Government Area, and 40 others, the communiqué reads, “Osun West remains the most suitable and best-positioned district to secure victory for the APC in the next governorship election. Since the creation of the state, our district has not enjoyed equal opportunities compared to others in producing a governor.”
The chairmen pledged to collaborate with other districts in presenting a credible candidate capable of unseating the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, in the 2026 elections.
Zoning and Historical Inequities
The communiqué highlighted a glaring imbalance in the state’s political landscape. “Osun East has held the governorship for eight years, and Osun Central has enjoyed over 15 years in office. In stark contrast, Osun West has held the position for only five years and six months. For justice, fairness, and equity, it is imperative to zone the 2026 governorship ticket to Osun West,” the statement noted.
The forum expressed unwavering support for the principle of “right of first refusal” for Oyetola, acknowledging his contributions to the party. “If he chooses not to contest, the ticket must be allocated to Osun West in the spirit of fairness and inclusivity,” they added.
Appeal to Chief Bisi Akande
In a separate move, the Osun West APC leadership appealed to Chief Bisi Akande, the party’s pioneer National Chairman, for his support. They marked his 86th birthday with a congratulatory message, describing him as a “repository of political wisdom” and urging him to champion their cause.
The message, signed by Akintola Omolaoye, Osun West Senatorial District Chairman, stated, “Your political experience is a source of inspiration since 1999. We trust in your dedication to fairness, equity, and inclusivity—values crucial to sustaining democratic governance.”
The communiqué concluded with a direct appeal to Akande to back their push for the governorship ticket if Oyetola does not recontest.
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