Osun Governorship Poll: Coalitions ask parties to consider Osogbo indigene as candidate

News Update

In a bold political declaration ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election, a coalition of Osogbo indigenous organisations has insisted that the next governor of Osun State must come from Osogbo, describing the demand as a matter of equity, history, and demographic fairness.

Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, Omosola Olabode, Coordinator of the Osogbo Development Action Group, who spoke on behalf of the Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups, urged all political parties, particularly the APC, PDP, and ADC, to field credible Osogbo indigenes in their governorship primaries, warning that any party that sidelines Osogbo will face electoral rejection.

“Any party that fields an Osogbo indigene will receive overwhelming support. Our votes will follow our identity and our future,” Maroof added.

Also speaking, Salam Maroof, Coordinator of the Osogbo Progressive Youth Movement, emphasised that Osogbo’s stand is not about sentiment but justice, equity, and recognition of the city’s contributions to the growth of Osun State.

The coalition highlighted Osogbo’s historical significance, economic dominance, voter strength, and rapid population growth, noting that the city drives more than 65% of daily economic activities in Osun State. They also pointed out the absence of a federal institution in the state capital, describing it as a “long-standing injustice that must be corrected.”

The group said the capital city has exhibited patience for 35 years without producing a state governor since the creation of Osun in 1991.

“Osogbo has never produced a governor. We are the cultural and spiritual root of Osun, the largest voter bloc, and the economic engine of the State. 35 years is enough, it is our turn,” Olabode declared.

The coalition further appealed to Osogbo residents to unite politically and rally behind any competent candidate of Osogbo origin across party lines.

The statement was jointly endorsed by:

Osogbo Development Action Group (ODAG)

Osogbo Progressive Youth Movement (OPYM)

Osogbo Peace and Unity Advocacy (OPUA)

Osogbo Affairs Forum (OSAF)

The Great Osogbo Daughters

Ààrè Ò Pétà Movement

Osogbo National Students Union (ONSU)

The event concluded with a strong message of solidarity

“Osogbo has given so much to Osun, now Osun must give Osogbo its due.”