Osogbo youths warn APC over governorship primary, demand recognition

Osogbo youths warn APC over governorship primary, demand recognition

The Osogbo Progressive Youths Movement has delivered a stern warning to All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, accusing the party of neglecting the state capital despite its consistent support and loyalty.

In a statement issued on 18 November 2025, Comrade Jimoh Oyekola Ajayi, convener of the group, said Osogbo has repeatedly been overlooked for political appointments and federal allocations, even as it delivers crucial votes for the APC. He pointed out that the town has never produced a minister under President Muhammadu Buhari or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ajayi highlighted the role of Osogbo natives in key APC victories, including the tribunal victory in a controversial Osun local government election that was later nullified by Governor Ademola Adeleke. He also noted the contributions of Senator Ajibola Basiru, PhD, who has served as the APC’s national secretary, saying these efforts have gone largely unrecognised.

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The youth leader warned that attempts by leaders from Iragbiji, a town with only four wards, to impose a non-Osogbo candidate for the APC governorship primary on 13 December 2025, would be “political suicide.” He said Osogbo’s block votes will back only the party that respects and recognises the town’s importance.

“Osogbo has always delivered votes and loyalty to the APC. Our strongest political figures have been downgraded while smaller towns enjoy federal institutions and recognition. This pattern must end,” Ajayi said.

The statement also referenced other federal allocations, noting that Iwo, Ila, and Iragbiji have benefited from ministries, universities, and institutions under the APC, while Osogbo remains sidelined.

Ajayi concluded by urging the party to “honour Osogbo now or face the consequences at the polls,” reiterating that forgiveness is possible if the APC corrects its perceived wrongs ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

Political observers say the Osun APC is facing growing pressure to manage internal disputes ahead of the primary, as divisions among local and regional leaders threaten party cohesion. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the PDP, have cautioned that APC infighting could impact its electoral fortunes in the state.

Osogbo youths warn APC over governorship primary, demand recognition