OSUN 2026: Defections Won’t Stop APC’s Return to Power, Oyintiloye Declares as Party Rallies Behind AMBO

 OSOGBO – A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has dismissed concerns over recent defections from the party, insisting that the development poses no threat to the APC’s structure, popularity, or chances of victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye described the defections as a common occurrence in politics, particularly during election seasons, stressing that the APC remains firmly positioned to reclaim power in the state.

According to him, the party's strength lies in its extensive grassroots network, which spans all wards, polling units, communities, and local government areas across Osun State.

“The APC in Osun is bigger than any individual or group of individuals. Our party is built on a solid foundation that has endured for decades. We have a resilient structure, loyal membership, and an ever-expanding support base across the state,” he said.

Oyintiloye argued that claims suggesting the APC has been weakened by the departure of some members are far from the political reality on the ground.

“The strength of our party resides in the people, and the people remain firmly with the APC,” he added.

The former lawmaker further noted that the emergence of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) as the party’s governorship candidate has reinvigorated party members and sparked widespread enthusiasm among voters.

He described Oyebamiji as a competent, accessible, and experienced public servant whose growing popularity continues to attract support across political, religious, and social divides.

“There is no community in Osun State today where the AMBO movement is not gaining momentum. The support he enjoys cuts across political affiliations, religious divides, age groups, and professional backgrounds. His popularity is organic and continues to grow daily,” Oyintiloye stated.

He maintained that no other candidate in the race currently enjoys the level of goodwill, credibility, and political momentum being generated by the APC candidate.

“The people have identified with his vision, and they are eager to entrust him with the responsibility of leading Osun to greater heights,” he said.

Oyintiloye also disclosed that ongoing consultations, stakeholder engagements, reconciliation efforts, and grassroots mobilization initiatives have helped strengthen internal cohesion within the party despite recent political shifts.

Calling for unity among party leaders, elected officials, stakeholders, and members, he urged APC supporters to intensify grassroots campaigns and remain focused on the party’s electoral objective.

“This is not the time for distractions or pessimism. It is the time for greater unity, deeper engagement with the people, and stronger mobilisation across our communities. Our structures are intact, our supporters are energised, and our candidate enjoys overwhelming acceptance,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the party’s prospects, Oyintiloye declared that the APC remains the party to beat in Osun State and is fully prepared for victory at the polls.

“We are confident, we are prepared, and we are fully positioned for victory. By the grace of God and the support of the good people of Osun, we shall emerge victorious on August 15, 2026,” he added.

Despite his optimism, the APC stalwart appealed to the party leadership to address grievances among members and sustain ongoing reconciliation efforts to prevent further defections.

He emphasized that every member remains important to the party’s success and called for greater inclusiveness as preparations for the governorship election intensify.

“Every member has a role to play in the party’s victory. The leadership must continue to promote unity and address concerns where necessary for the overall benefit of the APC,” Oyintiloye said.