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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Frontline All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirants in Osun State and immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, has boldly declared himself as the person to beat in the race for Osun 2026.
The former Commissioner for Finance in Osun State spoke yesterday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) national secretariat, Abuja where he submitted his expression of interest form ahead of the December 13 governorship primary.
Oyebamiji arrived in the company of an imposing delegation of political heavyweights, including two former Secretaries to the State Government – Kasim Adio and Prince Wole Oyebamiji; former Deputy Chief of Staff Prince Abdullahi Binuyo; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Protocol Ambassador Issah Adedotun Niniola; former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye; Chairperson of the Federal Character Commission Ayo Omidiran and Nigeria’s first female Deputy Speaker Nike Omoworare.
Speaking with journalists after submitting his forms, Oyebamiji said his motivation to govern Osun stems from a desire to harness the state’s human and mineral resources through focused and credible leadership.
“We have a population of about five million, blessed with rich human assets and mineral deposits. To drive these resources effectively, the state needs a manager with focus, a track record, credibility, knowledge, and character. I am that manager.”
He highlighted his experience in both private and public sectors, noting his 28 years in the banking industry, service under two governors as Commissioner for Finance, and his record-setting tenure as NIWA Managing Director.
“My antecedents are there. Everywhere I have served, I have delivered without blemish,” he said.
Asked whether he could withstand fellow aspirants, including former APC National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Oyebamiji downplayed any notion of rivalry.
“Distinguished Senator Omisore is an elder we honour. There are about 14 aspirants, all credible. This contest is a friendly match. Whoever the elders choose, we will support. We are brothers. Unity of the party is our watchword.”
He added that the APC in Osun had not lost a single member in two years, insisting the steady growth of the party signaled organisation, cohesion and readiness for victory.
Pressed to identify the political camp backing him, Oyebamiji responded that his support base cuts across the APC structure.
“Everybody is backing me. The Almighty God is backing me. APC members and credible citizens of Osun are backing me. I have the courage and modesty to tell you that I am an aspirant to beat,” he declared.
Explaining the resignation from his federal appointment, Oyebamiji said stepping aside was necessary to demonstrate commitment and integrity.
“My two years at NIWA were phenomenal – a record unmatched since the authority was created. With God, everywhere I step, I succeed. We are working hard, and we are going to deliver the goodies to the people of Osun State.”
As the APC primary approaches, Oyebamiji positions himself as a technocrat-turned-politician ready to steer Osun “to the highest pedestal,” setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive and consequential governorship contest.
