Omisore, a governorship aspirant, had voiced his dissatisfaction over his disqualification from the race but accepted the party’s decision during a recent television interview.
Present at the primary were other notable governorship aspirants, including former Deputy Governor Benedict Alabi, Dotun Babayemi, Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, Dr Mulikat Abiola, Rasheed Adegoke SAN, Senator Babajide Omoworare, and Babatunde Oralusi. At the event, several candidates publicly announced their endorsement of the party’s chosen candidate.
Kunle Adegoke SAN moved a motion for Bola Oyebamiji to be named the consensus candidate for the 2026 governorship election, a motion seconded by Senator Babajide Omoworare.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, chairing the primary committee, praised the aspirants who stepped down in support of Oyebamiji. “Your spirit of sacrifice and loyalty to the party is commendable and reflects the maturity and discipline that the APC is known for,” he stated.
Okpebholo emphasised the importance of ensuring that Osun State remains connected to the Federal Government, saying alignment with the centre could attract greater development and opportunities for residents.
Noting the critical nature of the upcoming election, Okpebholo stated, “We are tired of dancing,” signalling the urgency for a united front in the 2026 race.
In his acceptance speech, Oyebamiji expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and party leaders for their support. He articulated a vision for Osun, stating, “We are at a crossroads between real progress and frivolity, between accountability and wastefulness.”
He pledged to elevate living standards, reduce poverty, and revitalise the state’s health and educational systems.
“We invite all well-meaning citizens and party faithful to join us in repositioning our state for greater heights. The task ahead is substantial but achievable. As your candidate for the 2026 governorship election, I am fully prepared for the job, and together, we will make the people of Osun State proud,” Oyebamiji said.
Notable attendees at the primary included Lagos State Deputy Governor Hamzat Obafemi, Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule, former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and APC National Secretary Dr Ajibola Basiru.
