The Osun State APC faces deepening internal divisions as top governorship aspirants, Basiru and Oyebamiji, engage in public accusations over affiliations with former governor Aregbesola, risking party unity for the 2026 elections

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State is grappling with escalating internal turmoil as the 2026 governorship elections draw closer.

Also read: Accusations Fly in Osun APC as Tinubu’s Meetings Spark Fury Among Aspirants’ Camps

Two prominent aspirants, Dr. Ajibola Surajudeen Basiru and Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, are reportedly prioritizing internal squabbles over uniting the party to challenge the incumbent People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Instead of presenting a cohesive front, Basiru and Oyebamiji have plunged the Osun APC into a public rift, openly accusing each other of treachery.

Their dispute centers on alleged affiliations with former governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, whose fractious relationship with his successor, Gboyega Oyetola, significantly contributed to the APC’s defeat in the last gubernatorial contest.

Observers recall how Aregbesola’s alleged withdrawal of support and the formation of a splinter movement fragmented the party’s base, ultimately costing the APC the election.

Unfortunately, Basiru and Oyebamiji, both beneficiaries of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political benevolence, appear to be replaying this damaging history.

Their rivalry has generated negative headlines and provided ammunition for opposition parties ahead of the crucial election.

The Ajibola Basiru Campaign Organisation recently disowned a Daily Post report that claimed Basiru was seeking Aregbesola’s support, labeling it a fabrication and denying any criticism of President Tinubu regarding Governor Ademola Adeleke’s recent visit to the Villa. Despite this, the storm has not subsided.

We need leaders who will prioritise Osun and the APC above ego or ambition. The era of betrayal should be over.

Their relentless blame game highlights a disregard for party unity, even as other aspirants maintain calm and respectful campaigns.

Notably, political veterans such as Senator Iyiola Omisore, a former Deputy Governor and National Secretary of the APC, remain focused on rebuilding the party without engaging in personal squabbles.

Also gaining grassroots support is Senator Mudashiru Oyetunde Husain, recognized for his honesty, courage, and competence from his past legislative service.

Prince Dotun Babayemi, known for his philanthropy and previous governorship bid, has also maintained decorum, avoiding actions that could undermine party leadership.

Even Mr. Benedict Alabi, the former Deputy Governor, has shown restraint and maturity, refusing to engage in power plays against his political benefactors despite being a potential flag bearer.

In contrast, Basiru and Oyebamiji, currently holding appointments made possible by Tinubu and Oyetola, appear indifferent to the implications of their internal war. Their actions risk dragging the APC back into the shadows of division and defeat.

As one party stalwart reportedly put it, “We need leaders who will prioritise Osun and the APC above ego or ambition. The era of betrayal should be over.”

Unless the Osun APC redirects its energy towards uniting behind a credible, loyal candidate, the path to Oke Fia in 2026 may prove to be another formidable challenge.

Also read: Osun APC withdraws from local government elections amid political crisis

For a party seemingly granted another shot at relevance under Tinubu’s presidency, allowing internal sabotage would be nothing short of political suicide, exacerbating the Osun APC Crisis.