12/03/2026
Osun 2026: Why Oyebamiji Is Emerging as a Credible Alternative
By Abiola Oluwaseun
As the campaign for the Osun State off-cycle governorship election gathers momentum, the candidacy of the All Progressives Congress (APC) flagbearer, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, is increasingly drawing attention across the state. With the August 15, 2026 election drawing closer, supporters and political observers alike are increasingly presenting Oyebamiji as a credible alternative capable of redefining governance in the state.
The political race toward the 2026 off-cycle governorship election in Osun State has begun in earnest, bringing renewed debate about the direction of the state and the quality of leadership required to unlock its potential.
Campaigns officially commenced on March 11, setting the stage for what many observers believe could become one of the most consequential elections in Osun’s recent political history.
For many residents, the contest represents far more than a routine political exercise. It is increasingly being framed as a referendum on governance and a critical decision about whether the state should continue along its current trajectory or embrace a new path focused on rebuilding key sectors of the economy and restoring public confidence in leadership.
At the centre of this emerging political conversation is Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO. A technocrat with extensive experience across both the public and private sectors, Oyebamiji, a former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has steadily positioned himself as one of the most prominent alternatives to the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Supporters argue that his candidacy represents a potential turning point for a state many believe has struggled to fully harness its economic and human potential in recent years.
For a state blessed with rich cultural heritage, a vibrant population and significant economic assets, Osun should be thriving. Yet critics say the reality on the ground paints a less optimistic picture.
Despite substantial allocations from the federal government over the past three and a half years, funds that analysts estimate to run into hundreds of billions of naira, many residents say they have seen little improvement in the public services that affect their daily lives.
Across communities, complaints about deteriorating infrastructure, struggling public institutions and underperforming social services have become increasingly common.
For opposition voices, this disconnect between available resources and visible development lies at the heart of the criticism directed at the current administration.
Supporters of Oyebamiji argue that Osun’s challenge is not merely a shortage of funds but a deficit of strategic leadership capable of translating resources into measurable progress.
Nowhere is the sense of stagnation more evident, critics say, than in the education sector.
For decades, the South-West region of Nigeria has been known for strong educational standards. Osun, historically celebrated for producing scholars, professionals and innovators, once stood proudly within that tradition.
Today, however, concerns about the state of education in the state are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Across many public primary and secondary schools, infrastructure is visibly deteriorating. In several communities, classrooms are overcrowded, buildings show signs of neglect and learning facilities are often inadequate.
Teachers have repeatedly raised concerns about shortages of instructional materials as well as the urgent need for recruitment to address staffing gaps.
Osun 2026: Why Oyebamiji Is Emerging as a Credible Alternative
