A political storm is brewing in Osun State as The Osun Unity Forum, a faction within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has begun mobilizing youths, students, and first-time voters to unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial elections. The group has accused the governor of nepotism and alleged that his administration is disproportionately focused on developing his hometown, Ede, at the expense of other regions in the state.
Grassroots Mobilization for Change
Addressing the media at the APC state secretariat in Osogbo over the weekend, the convener of the group, Barrister Bimbo Amusan, announced their strategy to harness the support of young voters and students. The group’s focus, Amusan revealed, is on new and first-time voters, who they believe will play a decisive role in 2026.
“Every four years, new people cross the voting age,” Amusan stated. “We are targeting these new voters, especially youths and students, to bring them into our fold. Our approach goes beyond politics as a jamboree; it is an intellectual endeavor that requires technocracy and strategic orientation.”
Drawing parallels to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s electoral success, Amusan emphasized the importance of mobilizing newcomers to strengthen the APC’s chances.
Allegations of Nepotism and Lopsided Development
The group accused Adeleke’s administration of focusing development projects almost exclusively in Ede, his hometown, to the detriment of other parts of the state.
“All the development by the Adeleke administration is concentrated in Ede. At this rate, we will wake up one day to find the state capital has been moved from Osogbo to Ede,” Amusan alleged.
These claims, according to Amusan, will eventually lead to widespread dissatisfaction among the populace and hurt Adeleke’s re-election bid.
Building a Youth-Driven Opposition Movement
The group highlighted the strategic role of student union leaders and youth influencers in shaping the political landscape. They aim to create awareness among young voters about the significance of intellectual engagement in politics, framing their movement as a call for technocratic governance.
Amusan also hinted at innovative voter outreach strategies, leveraging technology and grassroots activism to ensure maximum impact.
Adeleke’s Administration Responds
Reacting to the allegations, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, dismissed the APC group’s claims as unfounded and mischievous. Alimi outlined the administration’s achievements, emphasizing that Governor Adeleke has undertaken infrastructure development across the state, contrary to the group’s assertions.
“Governor Adeleke has constructed roads and other infrastructure in various parts of the state, not just in Ede. He has also paid off salaries owed by the previous APC administration and completed abandoned projects. The 2026 election will be a walkover for Senator Ademola Adeleke,” Alimi said.
Adeleke’s Achievements Under Scrutiny
While Adeleke’s supporters hail his achievements, critics argue that these efforts are skewed toward his political stronghold. Notable achievements attributed to his administration include:
- Infrastructure Development: Road construction and other public works in select areas.
- Civil Service Reforms: Prompt payment of salaries, addressing long-standing grievances among state workers.
- Education and Health Initiatives: Expanded access to services in targeted communities.
However, opposition groups like The Osun Unity Forum contend that these developments lack balance and fail to address the needs of the entire state.
The Battle for 2026: What Lies Ahead?
As the political landscape in Osun State heats up, the 2026 gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest between the ruling PDP and the opposition APC. Key questions include:
- Will the APC’s youth-driven strategy resonate with first-time voters?
- Can Adeleke’s administration effectively counter claims of nepotism and uneven development?
- How will the electorate respond to Adeleke’s record on infrastructure, salaries, and governance?
Youth Participation as a Game-Changer
The emphasis on mobilizing youths and students highlights the growing recognition of their electoral significance. With Nigeria’s population skewing younger, engaging this demographic is no longer optional for political parties—it’s a necessity.
The APC’s strategy, if executed effectively, could redefine opposition politics in Osun State. However, analysts warn that converting grassroots mobilization into electoral success requires not just enthusiasm but a robust policy platform that addresses the aspirations of young Nigerians.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Election in the Making
The 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State promises to be a litmus test for both Governor Adeleke’s leadership and the APC’s organizational strength. As The Osun Unity Forum ramps up its efforts, the stage is set for a fiercely contested election that will shape the state’s political future.
The coming months will reveal whether the APC’s grassroots strategy can tip the scales or if Adeleke’s governance record will secure his second term. One thing is certain: Osun’s political landscape is entering a period of heightened activity and intense scrutiny.
Keep yourself informed with fresh updates from Trendingnaijanews.