Supporters of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and allies of All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship hopeful, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, have engaged in a war of words over claims of alleged support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.
The dispute follows reports in some political circles suggesting that President Tinubu may be quietly backing Governor Adeleke’s bid for re-election. However, the claims have been strongly refuted by pro-APC groups in Osun State.
One of such groups, the AMBO Media Fronts, which supports Oyebamiji, dismissed the reports, describing them as “false and misleading.” In a statement signed by its coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji, the group maintained that the President would not support the re-election of the incumbent governor.
The group further emphasised Oyebamiji’s loyalty to the APC, noting that he has remained a committed party member. It also cited his previous role at the National Inland Waterways Authority as evidence of his administrative competence and readiness for leadership.
In addition, the pro-Oyebamiji camp raised concerns about governance under Adeleke’s administration, questioning certain policies, particularly in the area of education funding. The group also alleged that some projects initiated by the current government lack proper execution.
Reacting swiftly, the Accord Media Centre, a group aligned with Governor Adeleke, rejected the criticisms and defended the governor’s performance in office. The group highlighted what it described as Adeleke’s growing popularity among residents of the state.
The Adeleke camp also criticised former Osun State governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Oyebamiji, accusing them of actions capable of embarrassing the President and deepening divisions within the APC.
According to the group, the conduct of some APC leaders in the state has been “divisive and cantankerous,” adding that such actions are undermining party unity.
It further alleged that internal disputes and the imposition of candidates have created dissatisfaction among party members, weakening the party’s cohesion ahead of the election.
The statement added that many supporters of President Tinubu in Osun have moved beyond internal party conflicts and are aligning with what it described as “the will of the people.”
The Accord Media Centre also claimed that Governor Adeleke enjoys widespread grassroots support across key demographics, including workers, artisans, students, and farmers.
According to the group, current political assessments indicate that Adeleke remains a strong contender in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
The group, however, urged Oyetola and Oyebamiji to avoid actions that could portray President Tinubu in a negative light, warning that such conduct could further escalate political tensions in the state as the election approaches.
