The Osogbo Progressive Youths Movement has accused the All Progressives Congress of neglect, betrayal, and plans to impose a candidate ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
In a statement signed by the Convener of the movement, Jimoh Oyekola Ajayi on Wednesday noted that the APC had consistently sidelined Osogbo despite the city’s electoral loyalty and contributions to the party’s past victories.
Ajayi stated that Osogbo had repeatedly demanded federal institutions to boost its economy but had not produced a minister under previous or current administrations.
He said the party only returned to Osogbo during election periods because of the city’s strong block votes.
The statement recalled that the party’s victory in the nullified local government election was secured at the tribunal through the efforts of an Osogbo indigene, AbdulRasheed Adegoke Okikiola, SAN.
Ajayi also noted that Senator Ajibola Bashiru had performed creditably as National Secretary but that Osogbo’s role in the party continued to be ignored when rewards were shared.
The movement convener said key political figures from Osogbo had been reduced to board roles in northern agencies where their influence remained limited.
He listed federal institutions sited in Iragbiji, Iwo, and Ila under the APC while noting that Osogbo, the state capital, received none.
Ajayi urged the APC to correct what it described as longstanding marginalisation by ensuring the governorship ticket returned to Osogbo during the party primary scheduled for 13th December 2025.
He warned that any attempt by the Iragbiji leadership to impose an Ikire candidate would be rejected, adding that Osogbo’s votes would favour any party that acknowledged its importance ahead of the 2026 election.
Part of the statement reads, “Forgiveness is still possible, if you correct your wrongs now. Begin by giving Osogbo its rightful place in the APC governorship primary on 13th December 2025.
The body language of genuine party loyalists is clear, they want the ticket to return to Osogbo.
But instead, the Iragbiji leadership, with only four wards, is trying to impose an Ikire candidate. That is political suicide.
“You cannot put the cart before the horse and expect victory.Our block votes will go to the party that honours Osogbo. Oyinlola once challenged us, and we showed him the way out. This time, our votes will not be wasted. I wish the APC success in the 2026 governorship election.Osogbo is ready for you, honour us now or face the consequences at the polls.”