The candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the August 15, 2026 governorship election in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has accepted defeat and congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory.
Oyebamiji accepted defeat and congratulated Adeleke on Saturday in Osogbo while addressing APC leaders, members and supporters on the outcome of the election and preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The APC candidate, however, called on Governor Adeleke, as the state’s Chief Security Officer, to take immediate steps to end killings, harassment and intimidation of APC members and supporters across the state.
Oyebamiji expressed concern over the violence before, during and particularly after the election.
He recalled the killings of former Irewole Local Government Chairman, Remi Abass; APC Chairman in Atakumosa Local Government, Chief Gbenga Ogbara; Dele Ayegbo, nephew of the Director-General of the APC Governorship Campaign Council, Wole Oke; and more than 35 other victims.
He condemned attacks on APC members, supporters and businesses based on perceived political affiliations, saying such actions must stop.
“The senseless killings, harassment and intimidation of members and supporters of our party must therefore stop forthwith,” Oyebamiji said.
He then called on the Nigeria Police Force to thoroughly investigate the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, while extending condolences to the families of victims of political violence.
Oyebamiji expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support before, during and after the governorship election.
He also commended former Governor Bisi Akande for his counsel and support.
Oyebamiji similarly praised 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 various tendencies within the APC subsequently put aside their differences and worked towards a common objective of securing victory for the party.
“The campaign covered all parts of Osun State, engaging civil servants, retirees, artisans, students, youths, entrepreneurs, women, professionals, sporting groups, persons living with disabilities and religious organisations, ” he said.
While congratulating Governor Adeleke and joining Osun State in commemorating its 35th anniversary, Oyebamiji urged the governor to fulfil his constitutional responsibility to protect the lives and property of residents.
The APC candidate said the party would continue to pursue justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means, particularly regarding the electoral process.
He urged APC members not to be discouraged by the outcome of the election but to remain committed to democracy and to have confidence in institutions established to protect their democratic rights.
Oyebamiji 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 Bola Tinubu.
He urged party members to close ranks, strengthen the party’s structures and work towards securing victories for Tinubu and other APC candidates in Osun State.
Oyebamiji also commended APC members for their resilience and commitment.
He added that the party would continue to pursue its vision of a greater Osun where resources are equitably deployed, opportunities are accessible to all and governance serves the broader interests of the people.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
