Former Osun Lawmakers Declare Support for NIWA Boss Oyebamiji Ahead of APC Governorship Primary

Osun State, Nigeria – As the build-up to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Osun State gains momentum, a powerful coalition of former speakers and lawmakers of the Osun State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, endorsing him as the most credible and sellable aspirant within the APC.

The endorsement came during strategic consultation visits by Oyebamiji to Boluwaduro and Ifelodun Local Government Areas, where he was warmly received by party stakeholders, grassroots mobilizers, and former public office holders.

Oyebamiji’s Track Record Draws Support

According to the caucus of ex-lawmakers, Oyebamiji’s more than 30 years of combined experience in the private and public sectors makes him uniquely qualified to lead the state. They described him as a seasoned technocrat, bridge-builder, and grassroots politician whose background and achievements have positioned him as the aspirant most likely to secure victory for the APC in the 2026 governorship election.

Speaking at the event, Wale Afolabi, the pioneer Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and spokesperson for the former lawmakers, noted that the support for Oyebamiji cut across different factions of the party.

“Oyebamiji is the most sellable aspirant in whom many of us, leaders and members, are well pleased. The turnout of party leaders and stakeholders to welcome him today confirms the growing confidence in his candidacy,” Afolabi stated.

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Grassroots Reception Signals Strength

During the consultative meeting, Oyebamiji was met with enthusiastic cheers and solidarity from party members in both Boluwaduro and Ifelodun, further cementing his rising popularity across the state. He assured the crowd of his commitment to delivering on campaign promises and emphasized the importance of unity within the party ahead of the primaries and general election.

“I am happy to see a great number of our party members receive us here in Boluwaduro Local Government,” Oyebamiji said. “This is a signal of victory, and I can assure our people that once we emerge, all our promises will be fulfilled by the grace of Almighty God.”

He also stressed that his campaign was built on collaboration and inclusiveness. “This is a friendly contest, and my advice is that we should continue to relate as one united family. We are working together to get the best for our people. Once the best is picked, we will work together to lead our party to victory.”

APC Stakeholders Express Optimism

Other APC stakeholders echoed their confidence in Oyebamiji’s leadership qualities and electoral value. Femi Popoola, the lawmaker representing Boluwaduro State Constituency, described Oyebamiji as a dedicated leader who understands the political and developmental needs of Osun State.

“He is not just an administrator; he is a strategist and a man of integrity. His experience at NIWA and previous public service roles give him an edge. He has the structure, the competence, and most importantly, the people’s trust,” Popoola said.

Similarly, Oluomo Sunday Akere, a former Commissioner for Information in the state, stated that Oyebamiji’s candidacy represented the party’s best chance at reclaiming the Osun Government House in 2026.

“Leadership is about vision, experience, and the ability to unite people for progress. Oyebamiji has demonstrated all these and more. He has the support of the grassroots, and we believe he can lead the APC to resounding victory,” Akere remarked.

Political Climate in Osun Ahead of 2026

The APC in Osun is undergoing a period of strategic realignment as it prepares for the upcoming 2026 governorship election scheduled for August 8, 2026. With the PDP currently in power under Governor Ademola Adeleke, the APC is determined to reclaim the state and has begun early mobilization efforts to identify a strong candidate.

Observers believe that Oyebamiji’s growing support, particularly from influential political blocs like the former lawmakers’ caucus, could be a decisive factor in the primary election. His ability to appeal to both technocrats and traditional political stakeholders gives him an advantage in what is expected to be a competitive race.

Outlook for the APC Governorship Primary

The APC primary, which is expected to attract several aspirants, will test the unity and internal democratic mechanisms of the party. Oyebamiji’s message of a “friendly contest” and call for party unity has resonated with many members who are keen to avoid post-primary divisions that could weaken the party’s chances at the general election.

With campaign consultations ongoing, and party members increasingly throwing their weight behind him, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji is emerging as a frontrunner in the race for the APC ticket. Whether this early momentum will translate into victory at the primaries remains to be seen, but his candidacy has clearly injected fresh energy into the political landscape of Osun State.