Politics
Osun 2026: Aregbesola and Political Family Exit APC
Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his political family have officially left the APC ahead of the 2026 elections, signaling a shift in the state’s political landscape.
The Omoluabi Progressives, a group supporting former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, have decided to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Abosede Oluwaseun, the group’s Organising and Publicity Secretary, issued a statement explaining that stakeholders reached a consensus to withdraw from the APC. This decision was ratified during their monthly meeting in Ilesa on Sunday, following an earlier resolution by members from all 332 wards of Osun.
The statement disclosed several reasons for the resolution, such as being ostracized from the party, suspending and expelling tendency leaders without a fair hearing, and ongoing denigration of its structure, among other issues.
The statement revealed that they also conveyed their dissatisfaction with how the Osun APC’s internal conflict was handled, resulting in the party’s dismal performance in the recent election cycle. They agreed this situation has weakened its strength and popularity among the people of Osun.
The leadership of the group conducted a voice vote among its members, who confirmed their willingness to shift allegiance to another political camp in preparation for the 2026 governorship election in the state.
Speaking to the group, former Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola praised them for their dedication and unwavering commitment to the values of character, integrity, and good governance.
Aregbesola, while confirming the resolution, emphasized that it was time to vigorously pursue the success of Omoluabi Progressives and fulfill its vision of establishing good governance in Osun.
He also assured that the results of ongoing efforts by the leadership to position it properly for future tasks would soon materialize.
Aregbesola expressed his joy, stating, “I am truly pleased that everyone here has spoken with a single voice. It’s not just about unity in speech but also forming a united front to guide us towards our shared victory in the journey ahead.”
I want to remind you that our current journey aims to enhance the prosperity of our beloved state through responsible leadership.
The path we’ve followed is smooth, reassuring, and filled with promising opportunities that will drive our beloved state toward greatness.
Thus, you should demonstrate greater dedication and draw in sincere individuals who are prepared to join us on this path of righteousness.
We welcome everyone, no matter their political views, religion, or cultural background. With our numbers, strength, and political insight, we are equipped to lead Osun to success among its peers. With God’s grace, we will succeed.
At the beginning of his speech, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji, Chairman of Omoluabi Progressives, expressed gratitude to the members for their steadfastness.
Adesiji informed the gathering that, with members committed to joining a new political platform, every effort should be made to educate them on the principles of true progressivism—an essential feature of Omoliabi Progressives.
The former council chief praised their collaboration over the past 17 months of the tendency’s existence and promised to consistently offer leadership that safeguards members’ interests.
I am pleased that meetings are taking place throughout all local government areas in the state, with significant progress being made.
The reports on turnout and new membership have been impressive so far. Let’s keep up this momentum moving forward.
Our journey to reclaim Osun is a collective effort. Rest assured that we are committed to always considering your interests.
The Chairman expressed that they seek your dedication to their principles, enabling collaboration to bring good governance back to Osun in 2026.
The Progressive Organization of Rauf Aregbesola, known as TOP, emerged prior to the 2022 gubernatorial election in Osun State.
Shortly after the 2022 gubernatorial election, TOP was disbanded and its leaders advocated for unity within the Osun APC.
In 2024, the Osun APC removed key members who supported Aregbesola and subsequently suspended the former Minister from the party.
Soon after, the Aregbesola faction established The Omoluabi Progressives, which numerous political analysts have identified as a potential third force in the gubernatorial election scheduled for 2026 in the state.