A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Sunday Akere, has indicated that the party’s governorship ticket for the 2026 elections will be zoned to the West senatorial district if former Governor Gboyega Oyetola decides not to seek another term in office.
Akere, who previously served as Special Adviser on Political Affairs to Oyetola and is now the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, shared this position during a press briefing in Osogbo over the weekend.
Akere emphasized that the APC would prioritize the West senatorial district for the gubernatorial candidacy, contingent upon Oyetola, who retains the right of first refusal, opting out of the race for another term.
“The district will only be considered available if the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy declines to contest,” he stated.
He further highlighted the presence of competent and qualified candidates across all three senatorial districts within the state, asserting that any of them could successfully lead the party to victory over the incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, in the 2026 elections.
“Osun APC today is blessed with credible personalities across the three senatorial districts who can secure victory against Governor Adeleke in 2026,” Akere added. “However, for the sake of fairness, our focus will be on the West senatorial district.”
Without naming specific candidates, Akere underlined the capabilities of politicians from the West, noting their academic, psychological, and moral readiness to contest and potentially unseat the current governor. “The party has no shortage of political heavyweights in the district who are more than capable of delivering victory against the incumbent Governor,” he stated, expressing confidence in the APC’s internal processes and discipline.
Akere concluded by reiterating that the final decision rests with Oyetola.
“It is important to note that the APC maintains a strong tradition and disciplined approach, not just in Osun but across Nigeria. As such, former Governor Gboyega Oyetola retains the right of first refusal for the 2026 governorship ticket, and the decision ultimately lies with him,” he emphasized.
