Oyebamiji concedes Osun governorship defeat, congratulates Adeleke, demands end to political violence
By: Ismaeel Aleem
Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the 15 August governorship election in Osun State, has conceded defeat and congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking on Saturday in Osogbo to APC leaders, members and supporters about the election outcome and preparations for the 2027 general elections, Oyebamiji also urged Adeleke, as the state’s chief security officer, to take immediate steps to halt the killings, harassment and intimidation of APC members and supporters.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support before, during and after the election, and praised former Governor Bisi Akande for his counsel.
Oyebamiji similarly commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and former Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his efforts in repositioning the APC in the state.
Recalling his emergence as the party’s governorship candidate in December 2025, Oyebamiji said the various tendencies within the APC subsequently set aside their differences and worked towards a common goal of securing victory.
He noted that the campaign had traversed all parts of the state, engaging civil servants, retirees, artisans, students, youths, entrepreneurs, women, professionals, sporting groups, persons living with disabilities and religious organisations.
However, he voiced deep concern over what he described as unwarranted violence before, during and particularly after the election. He specifically recalled the killings of former Irewole Local Government Chairman Hon. Remi Abass; APC Chairman in Atakumosa Local Government Chief Gbenga Ogbara; Dele Ayegbo, nephew of the Director-General of the APC Governorship Campaign Council Hon. Wole Oke; and more than 35 other victims.
Oyebamiji called on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the killings thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice. He extended condolences to the families of the victims of political violence, assuring them that they would not be abandoned.
While congratulating Adeleke and joining Osun State in commemorating its 35th anniversary, Oyebamiji urged the governor to use his constitutional responsibilities to protect the lives and property of residents.
He condemned attacks on APC members, supporters and businesses based on perceived political affiliations, describing such actions as unacceptable in a state seeking to attract investment and create employment opportunities.
“The senseless killings, harassment and intimidation of members and supporters of our party must therefore stop forthwith,” he said.
On the post-election situation, Oyebamiji stated that the party would continue to pursue justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means, particularly with respect to the electoral process.
He urged APC members not to be discouraged by the outcome but to remain committed to democracy and to have confidence in the institutions established to protect their democratic rights.
He subsequently called on APC leaders, members and supporters across Osun State to begin preparations for the 2027 general elections, particularly the re-election bid of President Tinubu.
Party members should close ranks, strengthen the party’s structures and work towards securing victories for Tinubu and other APC candidates in the state, he said.
Oyebamiji concluded by commending APC members for their resilience and commitment, adding that the party would continue to pursue its vision of a greater Osun in which resources are equitably deployed, opportunities are accessible to all and governance serves the broader interests of the people.