By Peter Omopo
September 30, 2025 – Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will reclaim Osun State in the 2026 governorship election.
Speaking on Monday in Iragbiji during his 71st birthday celebration, the former governor attributed his confidence to the renewed unity within the APC and called on party members to remain steadfast in consolidating progress.
“By God’s special grace, our party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming 2026 gubernatorial election. I thank God for the way things are going with our party, how we have been able to stand in unity. I want to encourage us to continue in that suit and ensure that peace and unity reign in the party, because that is how we can emerge victorious in 2026,” Oyetola said.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries including the Asiwaju Musulumi of South-West, Edo, and Delta states, Dr. Olatunde Badmus; the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji; and APC governorship hopeful, Prince Dotun Babayemi.
Oyetola urged youths in the state to avoid thuggery, drug abuse, and hooliganism, advising them instead to remain focused, dedicated, and God-fearing. “We didn’t get involved in drug abuse before attaining this height. Please stay away from drugs because they only lead to mental health issues,” he cautioned.
In his sermon at the gathering, the Chief Imam of Offa, Alhaji Muideen Salman, stressed the importance of forgiveness and communal harmony, calling on residents to embrace peace and unity.
Osun State’s governorship election is scheduled for August 8, 2026. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is widely expected to seek re-election. Meanwhile, multiple APC aspirants have already declared interest in the ticket, raising concerns about potential internal divisions. Party leaders, however, insist that the contest will be managed without fracturing cohesion.
