APC Inaugurates Osun Campaign Council as 'Litmus Test' for 2027

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has inaugurated its National Campaign Council for the governorship election in Osun State, scheduled for August 15. APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda described the off-cycle poll as a "litmus test" and a rehearsal to measure the party's political machinery and preparedness ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr. Yilwatda stated that the party would deploy an extensive array of human resources, including governors, National Assembly members, local government chairmen, and other political leaders, to conduct house-to-house grassroots mobilization across the state. He emphasized that the APC possesses abundant experienced politicians and a strong organizational capacity to reclaim Osun State.

Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State and chairman of the campaign council, pledged that the party would pursue an issue-based and evidence-driven campaign. He stated that the strategy would focus on the achievements of the APC-led federal government under President Bola Tinubu and avoid political attacks, responding to provocation with peace.

The APC's governorship candidate, Munirudeen Oyebamiji (also referred to as Bola Oyebamiji), expressed confidence in his victory, claiming that engagements across the state's 30 local government areas indicate that residents are eager for a change of government.

However, the Imole Campaign Council (TICC), representing Governor Ademola Adeleke, has dismissed the APC's strategy. TICC argued that relying on external political heavyweights reflects an exaggerated assessment of their influence and described the approach as evidence of "political arrogance." The council asserted that voters will decide based on Governor Adeleke's record in areas such as road construction, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment, rather than the number of politicians a party can mobilize. TICC further characterized Mr. Oyebamiji as weak and unpopular, suggesting the APC's reliance on senior leaders demonstrates the candidate's inability to secure support independently.