By Chidinma Nwaoji
Oyetola bows out of 2026 osun race, Rallies APC for unity and victory
In a move that surprised many political watchers, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and former Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, has declared that he will not contest the 2026 governorship election.
Oyetola made the announcement during an All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday in Osogbo, where five declared governorship aspirants were present. Addressing the gathering, Oyetola emphasized that reclaiming Osun State for the APC in the 2026 election was more critical than any personal ambition.
The session, co-chaired by the Osun APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, and the Chairman of the party’s Elders’ Caucus, Sola Akinwumi, marked a strategic point in the party’s preparations for the upcoming election.
Dispelling rumours about a potential return to the governorship race, Oyetola said, “Our focus must remain on returning the APC to power. We have capable, competent aspirants with proven track records. That alone gives us a strong edge going into the 2026 election.”
He also pledged his full support to the party’s aspirants and reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s success and the broader development agenda at both state and federal levels.