Tensions Escalate in Osun as APC, PDP Battle for Control Ahead of 2026 Governorship Race

2026 governorship : Political tensions in Osun State have intensified following the February 10, 2025, Court of Appeal ruling that reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen across local councils. Since then, clashes between the state government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the APC have become a near-daily occurrence, as both parties fiercely contest control at the grassroots level.

The latest flashpoint revolves around the collection of market rates, with both sides issuing threats and accusing each other of illegality. The dispute is shaping up as a prelude to a much bigger battle—the 2026 Osun governorship election.

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Local Government Battle Centers on Power, Revenue Collection

The focus keyword here is “Control,” highlighting the core struggle between the APC and PDP over the administration of Osun’s local governments.

Following the appellate court decision that reinstated the APC-elected chairmen, the Osun State government under Governor Adeleke refused to recognize them, insisting instead on the authority of PDP officials elected in a controversial February 21 local government election. Independent observers, however, noted that elections reportedly did not hold in many council areas.

While the APC chairmen took charge of council affairs, a fresh dispute erupted over market revenue collection. Governor Adeleke accused the APC chairmen of “illegal tax collection” and forging council documents. He directed the State Emergency Management Agency and the Commissioner of Police to investigate and prosecute those allegedly involved.

Specifically pointing at Boripe Local Government—home of former governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola—the governor condemned the formation of revenue taskforces by APC chairmen, describing them as unlawful.

In a strongly worded statement, Adeleke said: “Forging council documents and collecting revenue illegally are punishable offences under the law. Any person caught in such act will face the full wrath of the law.”

APC Fires Back: Defends Council Chairmen’s Legitimacy

The APC swiftly countered Adeleke’s claims, accusing the state government of violating constitutional provisions. Party spokesperson Kola Olabisi alleged that the governor was instigating violence against the duly reinstated APC council officials.

The APC also petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, urging the federal authority to investigate what it called “a plot to use fake policemen to intimidate and attack council chairmen.”

“The chairmen are lawfully elected and recognized under the law by virtue of the Appeal Court judgment,” Olabisi stressed. “Governor Adeleke should act decently and honorably, rather than pacing maniacally like a bull in a china shop.”

The APC further noted that during Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s tenure, PDP-elected officials were allowed to serve their term while legal challenges proceeded, suggesting Adeleke should do the same.

2026 Governorship Race: Early Signs of a Fierce Battle

Beyond the ongoing tussle at the council level, both the PDP and APC are gearing up for an intense battle for the governorship in 2026.

Governor Ademola Adeleke is widely expected to secure the PDP ticket unopposed, particularly after his main rival within the party, Prince Dotun Babayemi, and his supporters defected to the APC. Adeleke’s incumbency and strengthened grip on the party structure make him the clear favorite.

On the APC side, there are strong indications that Bola Oyebamiji, the current Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and a former Finance Commissioner, is emerging as the preferred candidate. Sources within the party suggest Oyebamiji enjoys broad support from both the Aregbesola and Oyetola factions, promising to unify the party ahead of the critical contest.

Analysts believe that, unlike in 2022, the APC at the federal level is unlikely to remain neutral, given the strategic importance of the 2026 governorship race in shaping the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

With both major parties locked in a fierce struggle at the grassroots and with alliances already forming, Osun appears set for a volatile and closely contested gubernatorial race.

The ongoing crisis over local government control in Osun State is more than just an administrative tussle; it is a strategic battle for political supremacy ahead of 2026. As the PDP and APC harden their positions, the skirmishes at the council level offer a glimpse into the intense, high-stakes political drama that will define the state’s future.

Observers and stakeholders are bracing for what promises to be one of Osun’s most pivotal electoral battles yet, as both parties prepare for the ultimate prize: the governorship seat.