Osun 2026: APC’s Surprise Card Stirs Political Tension

 

.... ranking aspirants making wave 

Despite Osun's slow and steady gubernatorial context as Ekiti state APC's BAO swiftly positioned himself as the best card to retain the seat of governor, Osun APC political card comes with tense and suspense. The social media had in recent months awash with different kinds of aspirants whose campaign bases were solid. Recently, the former deputy governor, Dr. Iyiola Omisore, has also dived into the race.

A Gathering Storm in Osun APC

The political temperature in Osun State is rising as the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares to wrestle power back from the incumbent. Unlike Ekiti State, where Governor Biodun Oyebanji (BAO) quickly consolidated his grip and emerged as APC’s “best card,” Osun’s APC is witnessing a suspense-filled buildup.

The battlefield is charged with uncertainty. Multiple aspirants are positioning themselves as the “surprise card” that could swing the pendulum in 2026.

Aspirants Making Waves

1. Dr. Iyiola Omisore

The former deputy governor recently declared his ambition, immediately shaking up the field. With deep roots in Ife politics, Omisore brings name recognition and experience that many argue cannot be ignored. His return to the gubernatorial race has injected fresh tension into the APC fold.

2. Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (K-RAD, SAN)

A respected legal luminary, K-RAD is steadily becoming one of the most talked-about aspirants. His policy-driven rhetoric, combined with grassroots engagements, has earned him recognition as a dark horse capable of pulling surprises. He is increasingly seen as a unifying figure within the APC.

3. Senator Babajide Omoworare

The former senator is leveraging his long-standing political network and strong recognition across Osun. Attending closed-door consultations with APC elders, Omoworare is being tipped as a steady hand with insider party support.

4. Prince Dotun Babayemi

Once a prominent PDP aspirant, Babayemi’s move to the APC has rebranded him as a technocratic contender. His freshness and reformist image resonate with sections of the youth and professionals, making him one of the aspirants to watch.

5. Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji

Known for his financial clout and organizational strength, Oyebamiji’s campaign is picking up traction. Though his grassroots penetration is debated, his presence in strategic meetings signals intent and seriousness.

6. Senator Mudashiru Hussein

With decades in politics, Hussein is no newcomer. His consultations with stakeholders position him as a traditional force, though questions linger about whether his influence can withstand the rising tide of younger aspirants.

7. Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi

A successful businessman and former insurance magnate, Ogunbiyi offers a mix of private sector expertise and political ambition. His campaign emphasizes industrialisation and youth empowerment, themes that resonate in a state grappling with unemployment.

Ranking the Wave-Makers

1. Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (K-RAD) – Widely tipped as the most balanced aspirant, combining grassroots reach with intellectual credibility.

2. Dr. Iyiola Omisore – A comeback heavyweight whose entry has shifted the narrative.

3. Senator Jide Omoworare – Strong insider support, calm but strategic moves.

4. Prince Dotun Babayemi – The technocrat with growing grassroots appeal.

5. Bola Oyebamiji – Resource-backed contender with targeted influence.

6. Akin Ogunbiyi – Private sector-driven vision, though still consolidating ground.

7. Mudashiru Hussein – Veteran with experience, but facing generational challenges.

Conclusion

As the APC’s internal race thickens, the big question remains: Who will be the surprise card that emerges from the shadows to confront Governor Adeleke in 2026?

The suspense lingers, and for now, the drama inside Osun APC is as compelling as the eventual battle ahead.

Disclaimer: This ranking is based on visible activities, public engagements, and available political indicators at the time of publication. Oriontimes relies on basic facts and observations and does not intend to discredit or downgrade any aspirant. The analysis is for informational purposes only and should not be seen as an endorsement of any individual.

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