2026 Governorship: Dotun Babayemi Vows to Transform Osun with Tech-Driven, People-Centered Governance.

Osogbo, Osun State – As the political race heats up in Osun State ahead of the 2026 governorship election, Prince Dotun Babayemi, a lawyer and security expert, has emerged as one of the top aspirants under the All Progressives Congress (APC). In an exclusive interview, Babayemi outlined his vision for Osun’s transformation, declared readiness for the primary contest, and stressed the need for unity within the APC to reclaim the state from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Babayemi, who previously contested under the PDP, has returned to the APC with what he describes as renewed zeal and a clear agenda to drive meaningful development in the state. He emphasized the need for technology-driven, participatory governance, stressing that citizens must be part of policy formulation and execution.

“Osun Needs Collaborative Governance, Not Top-Down Control” – Babayemi

Babayemi’s development blueprint revolves around a data-driven, inclusive model, which he believes is the only sustainable way to solve Osun’s longstanding challenges.

“Our governance model will be participatory and collaborative. Government cannot work in isolation. Stakeholders—including civil society, private sector players, and the people themselves—must be part of the planning and implementation process. That’s the only way we can truly meet the needs of our people,” he said.

He also stressed that collective involvement builds transparency, accountability, and trust, which are essential for long-term development and peace.

Rising Number of Aspirants a Sign of Party Vitality

With more than nine aspirants already in the APC race for the governorship ticket, concerns have arisen over possible internal friction. But Babayemi sees the growing interest as a positive trend.

“This is early-stage activity. I believe the number of aspirants will naturally reduce as the race gets tighter. But more importantly, having many qualified aspirants is a sign of party vibrancy. It means people still believe in the APC platform and want to contribute to its success,” he said.

He dismissed the notion that too many aspirants could spoil the broth, adding, “We are all professionals with individual strengths. Our competition adds momentum to the party, not division.”

Why I Deserve the APC Ticket

On why he believes he stands out among fellow contenders, Babayemi pointed to his clean political record, broad support base, and innovative ideas.

“I have never held political office, so I come into this race fresh—untainted by past failures or baggage. My ideas are bold, my team is competent, and my base spans youth, professionals, and grassroots communities. I represent a breath of fresh air, especially for those tired of recycled politicians,” he said.

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On Party Primaries: “Unity Will Prevail”

Babayemi acknowledged that APC primaries in the past have been marred by post-election grievances, but expressed confidence that the party would overcome such issues in 2026.

“APC is a mature party. Whether we choose direct or indirect primaries, what matters is unity after the process. The real battle is with the PDP, not among ourselves,” he stated.

He added that all APC aspirants in Osun understand the bigger goal: reclaiming the state and preparing the ground for national victory in 2027.

“We are not desperate. None of us sees this as a do-or-die affair. We’re united in our desire to end PDP’s misrule in Osun,” he said, praising President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style as a unifying force.

Agriculture as Cornerstone of Osun’s Future

Babayemi’s manifesto places agriculture at the heart of Osun’s economic revival. He lamented the underutilization of Osun’s vast agrarian potential, promising a turnaround.

“Agriculture is our development anchor. We’ll build agro-processing industries, boost livestock and aquaculture, and invest in logistics and warehousing. This will not only reduce food insecurity but also create jobs and transform Osun into an agricultural powerhouse,” he noted.

He revealed plans for a comprehensive food production and export strategy to position Osun on the global agricultural map.

Rejoining APC: Rebuilding from Within

Babayemi, who defected to the PDP in the past, has since returned to the APC. Since his return, he said, he has been actively working to reenergize the party at all levels.

“With the support of leaders like Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and our elders, I’ve been reconnecting with party members across Osun. We’re rebuilding the APC’s grassroots strength, and I’m proud of the progress we’re making,” he said.

2026: A Litmus Test for APC’s 2027 Ambitions

Babayemi described the 2026 Osun governorship election as a critical moment for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“This is our gateway to national victory. If we win Osun, we’ll enter 2027 with momentum. That’s why it’s crucial we get it right—no divisions, just focused strategy and unity,” he said.

With a compelling mix of youth-focused policies, technology integration, and grassroots mobilization, Babayemi positions himself as a leading contender for Osun’s top job—and a flagbearer capable of restoring APC’s dominance in the state.