Basiru Refutes Claims of Aregbesola Reconciliation and Tinubu Criticism Ahead of 2026 Osun Poll

Osogbo, Nigeria – The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 2026 governorship aspirant in Osun State, Senator Ajibola Basiru, has categorically denied allegations suggesting he is making moves to reconcile with former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, to bolster his gubernatorial bid. He also debunked reports insinuating that he criticized President Bola Tinubu over the recent visit of Governor Ademola Adeleke and his family to the Aso Rock Villa.

In a detailed statement issued on Monday by the spokesperson for his campaign organization, Sulaiman Ajala, Basiru described the narratives making the rounds as “completely false” and “a figment of the writer’s imagination,” intended to stir unnecessary political tension in Osun State.

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Basiru: Baseless Claims Threaten Political Stability in Osun

The campaign organization noted that with the 2026 Osun governorship election approaching, a wave of fabricated reports and unfounded accusations has surfaced, clearly targeting Senator Basiru’s credibility and long-standing political reputation. “The APC National Secretary firmly refutes this false claim. First, the Osun APC is not in any crisis whatsoever,” the statement asserted.

Basiru, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), expressed concern over the increase in political propaganda aimed at mischaracterizing his position. Emphasizing his professional integrity and long-standing commitment to the APC’s ideals, he stated that he never issued any comments about Governor Adeleke’s visit to President Tinubu, nor does he involve himself in speculative politics.

“Senator Basiru believes Governor Adeleke has the right to visit the President for personal or official matters. Since he was not involved in their discussions, he has no opinion to share,” Ajala clarified.

Asserting his loyalty to the APC, Basiru emphasized that his over two-decade-long political relationship with President Bola Tinubu has always been grounded in mutual respect and dedication to progressive governance. “Dr. Basiru strongly believes in the core principles of the APC and acknowledges that power comes only from God and through the guidance of party leadership,” the campaign stated.

No Alliance with Aregbesola, No Rift with Tinubu

Dismissing another key allegation, the statement made it unequivocally clear that Basiru has not sought any form of political alliance with Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who it claims is no longer a member of the All Progressives Congress. “Dr. Basiru has never made overtures, sent emissaries, or sought any form of alliance with Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. Such actions would be against his principles and against the interests of President Tinubu, whom he continues to support unwaveringly,” the release stated.

This clarification comes at a time when various camps within Osun APC and broader political stakeholders are positioning themselves for influence ahead of the 2026 elections. Analysts say such rumors, whether deliberately crafted or borne out of intra-party rivalry, could destabilize the party’s cohesion if not swiftly addressed.

Senator Basiru’s stance appears calculated to reassert his credibility, both as a loyal party man and a potential leader who intends to prioritize unity and disciplined political conduct. The campaign urged the public and party supporters to disregard the false narratives and remain focused on the shared vision for a progressive Osun State.

As the political climate in Osun begins to heat up, with multiple aspirants expected to jostle for the APC ticket, the former Senate spokesperson reiterated his focus on meaningful service delivery. “Dr. Basiru remains focused on serving both the party and the people with loyalty, humility, and integrity,” the statement concluded.

This clear-cut rebuttal is expected to douse the flames of rumor and set a precedent for truth and decorum in the pre-election political discourse across Osun State and beyond.