Osun 2026: APC group backs ex-NIWA MD Oyebamiji as consensus candidate

A group within the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, the Earliest Ilerioluwa Caucus, has urged the party to adopt the immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, as its consensus governorship candidate for the 2026 election.

The caucus said Oyebamiji—who previously served as Commissioner for Finance under former governors Rauf Aregbesola and Gboyega Oyetola—remains the most experienced and electable aspirant in the race.

The endorsement was made during a rally organised in Iwo in support of Oyebamiji’s governorship ambition.

According to a statement issued by the group and obtained in Osogbo on Friday, the event, which drew APC members, especially youths and women, helped to further boost awareness about his candidature.

Speaking at the rally, the group’s chairman, Yekeen Abilagbo, said Oyebamiji’s record in public service positioned him as the right choice for the party.

Abilagbo, a former chairman of the Federal Government’s Special Public Works Selection Committee in Osun, dismissed concerns about the ruling administration’s performance, insisting it had not weakened the APC’s chances in the coming poll.

“Bola Oyebamiji has shown he has the capacity to lead this state to prosperity. He was Commissioner for Finance under two administrations and performed exceptionally well,” he said.

“He was also appointed by the Federal Government, and within the two years he served as the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, his impact was widely felt. We want somebody like that, and we hope he emerges as the party’s candidate and the next governor of Osun.”

Also speaking, an APC chieftain from Iwo, Taofeeq Adeniyi, said while all governorship aspirants in the party are qualified, Oyebamiji stands out for his competence and leadership qualities.

“All the aspirants are qualified; they are even better than the present governor. But we are supporting Oyebamiji because he is an experienced administrator, a banker of repute, and a leader who genuinely cares about party members,” he said.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that about 13 aspirants have so far indicated interest in the APC ticket.

Those who have obtained the party’s expression of interest forms include former deputy governor Senator Iyiola Omisore, former lawmaker representing Ifelodun State Constituency, Mulikat Abiola, and Oyebamiji.

All aspirants who have purchased forms are expected to participate in the party’s governorship primary scheduled for December 13.