Omisore Officially Declares for 2026 Osun Governorship, Joins Crowded APC Field

OSOGBO – Former Deputy Governor of Osun State and immediate past National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Otunba Iyiola Omisore, has formally thrown his hat into the ring for the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, ending weeks of speculation over his next political move.

Speaking in a telephone interview with the Daily Sun on Monday afternoon, Omisore was unequivocal about his intentions. “Yes, I will run,” he said, confirming what many in political circles had quietly anticipated. The Ife-born politician disclosed that he had commenced wide-ranging consultations with influential APC stakeholders both within Osun and in Abuja, as part of efforts to solidify his bid.

Omisore’s entry into the race brings the number of declared APC aspirants to nine, significantly heightening the stakes ahead of what insiders describe as one of the most competitive governorship primaries in the party’s history in the state.

Political Signals Turn into Certainty

In recent weeks, political observers had noted heightened activity around Omisore’s campaign office in Osogbo, where extensive renovations were underway. The facelift, coupled with discreet mobilisation meetings, hinted strongly at a major announcement. Sources close to his political network revealed that Omisore has been quietly assembling a formidable campaign team, with a formal unveiling expected in the coming weeks.

The Growing APC Field

Before Omisore’s declaration, the APC’s line-up of aspirants already featured a mix of political heavyweights and new contenders, including:

• Mr Bola Oyebamiji – Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
• Mr Dotun Babayemi – Former PDP gubernatorial aspirant
• Senator Babajide Omoworare – Former Senate Committee Chairman
• Senator Mudashiru Hussain – Ex-lawmaker and political strategist
• Mr Akin Ogunbiyi – Business mogul and former PDP chieftain
• Mr Benedict Alabi – Former Deputy Governor of Osun State
• Mr Kunle Adegoke (SAN) – Senior Advocate of Nigeria and reform advocate
• Senator Ajibola Basiru – Current National Secretary of the APC

With Omisore now officially in the mix, analysts say the APC will have to carefully manage internal dynamics, particularly on the issues of zoning and party unity.

Strategic Calculations Ahead

Omisore, who previously represented Osun East Senatorial District, enjoys a strong political base in Ife land and is widely regarded as a veteran of Osun politics. His deep-rooted networks, experience in both legislative and executive arms of government, and recent role as APC National Secretary give him significant leverage in the contest.

However, the multiplicity of aspirants is expected to pose a challenge for the party, as it seeks to avoid factional splits that could weaken its chances in the 2026 general election. Party insiders suggest that negotiations, alliances, and even possible withdrawals may shape the final line-up before the primaries.

Political watchers note that the months ahead will test the APC’s internal cohesion, as heavyweights jostle for supremacy while the opposition watches closely. For Omisore, the journey from speculation to declaration marks only the first step in what promises to be a fierce battle for Osun’s top seat.

Akahi News – 08038644328