By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo
A sociopolitical group, The Osun West Majiyagbe Ambassadors (TOWMA) have attributed the murder of Hon. Remi Abass, the reinstated chairman of Irewole Local Government, to an alleged attempt to destabilise the growing demand for the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket to be zoned to Osun West Senatorial District.
The group affirmed that it remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and political fairness, despite attempts to silence their agitation.
Addressing members of the group after a peaceful rally held earlier on Wednesday, at the Post Office- Oja Ale and later terminated at the Oluwo’s palace, Iwo, Afeez Olalekan Ismail, acting Coordinator of TOWMA demanded justice over Abass’ killing and reiterated their appeal to the APC to zone the 2026 governorship ticket to Osun West.
Describing Abass’ murder as “a scheme to weaken the West’s aspiration,” the group vowed that his struggle for equity must not be in vain.
“They want to destabilise us through the death of Honourable Abass and do not want the ticket to come from us, but we will not relent,” he said.
“His life was dedicated to advocating for fairness, and in honour of his legacy, we urge APC stakeholders not to let his death be in vain. His unwavering commitment must inspire meaningful action by ensuring that the APC candidate emerges from Osun West,” the group added.
Urging the APC leadership at all levels, TOWMA called on President Bola Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, and Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, as well as other key stakeholders, to consider their demands in the spirit of equity and justice.
“Despite our district’s sincere commitment and unwavering loyalty to the progressives, the marginalisation of Osun West is an undeniable fact. We urge our leaders to confront it with urgency and resolve,” the statement read.
TOWMA argued that zoning the 2026 governorship ticket to Osun West would not only address historical injustice but also strengthen the party’s chances of reclaiming Osun from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
“Our members believe the political landscape in Osun State is ripe for transformation, and an APC candidate from Osun West offers the brightest chance of winning the gubernatorial election,” the group stated.
The group further recalled that Osun West delivered six out of its ten local government areas to the APC during the 2022 governorship election, despite the party’s flagbearer emerging from Osun Central—an act they described as a testament to the district’s loyalty.
A similar rally was held in Osogbo, the state capital few months ago where hundreds of participants were chanting solidarity for west candidacy in the APC.
As part of their advocacy, TOWMA also visited the palace, where they submitted a formal letter of appeal. The letter was received by the palace secretary, Alhaji Yakubu Ademola, who assured them that it would be delivered to the Oluwo of Iwo.
The group however issued a passionate plea: “We appeal to the conscience of every APC leader to acknowledge this moment as pivotal, not just for Osun West but for the party itself. This dream can become a reality with your support.”