The Digest:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, confirming 14 political parties will participate. Notably, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) did not present candidates. The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji has named Benjamin Adereti, the party's 2023 House of Representatives candidate for Ife Federal Constituency, as his running mate, replacing earlier nominee Tunde Olatunji. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate and former Speaker Najeem Salaam chose a female running mate, Yemisi Agiri. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of Accord retained his deputy, Kola Adewusi. Other candidates include Adeyera Oluwabusola Adesola (NNPP), Abdulsalam Olamide (ZLP), and Bello Muideen Yekeen (AAC). Campaign activities officially commence March 11. Oyebamiji stated the APC would rely on hard work, not federal might, to win.
Key Points:
- PDP and LP absence marks a significant shift in Osun's political landscape.
- Adeleke (Accord) seeks re-election after defecting from PDP.
- Oyebamiji's choice of running mate replaces an earlier nominee.
- ADC fields a female running mate, signaling gender inclusion efforts.
- Campaigns begin March 11 for the August 15 election.
With PDP and LP absent from the ballot, Osun's 2026 governorship race narrows to a contest between Adeleke's Accord, Oyebamiji's APC, and 12 other parties, as campaigns officially kick off March 11.
Sources: INEC Final List
