Osun APC in Turbulence: Primaries, Power, and the Stakes for 2026

Nigerians outside Osun who are even the least bit interested in its goings-on would have heard that the ruling party is fighting itself. While the crisis sits inside the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, its effects could spill beyond party lines. With the August 8, 2026, governorship election ahead, the disagreement is no longer quiet.

It began with the party primary. Former Deputy Governor Iyiola Omisore and several other aspirants were disqualified before the December 2025 primary. The process eventually produced Bola Oyebamiji as the APC candidate.

By way of response, Omisore has alleged that former governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, influenced the screening panel to edge out strong contenders. He claims the chairman admitted to facing pressure. Oyetola’s allies reject this, calling it political fiction.

In recent weeks, party elders under the Igbimo Agba Osun visited Omisore in Ile-Ife to prevent a split before the election. Omisore has said he remains loyal to the party but insists that transparency and fairness must improve.

That is one layer.

The second layer involves the state government led by Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party. Adeleke accuses the federal government of withholding over N130 billion in local government allocations since early 2025. He suggests Oyetola’s influence played a role.

Once again, Oyetola’s camp denies this. They argue that a Supreme Court decision has strengthened local government autonomy and that disputes over council control are being misrepresented.

For residents, the legal arguments matter less than the practical effects. When local government funds are disputed, projects slow down. Salaries and services become uncertain. Political tension filters into daily administration.

Inside the APC, the question is unity. Outside it, the question is governance.

As 2026 approaches, Osun voters will have to weigh two things: whether internal party grievances can be resolved, and whether the broader struggle over local government control affects service delivery. The arguments are loud. The consequences will be practical.