Community leaders in Osogbo, Osun State capital, have come together to intensify their demand for the 2026 governorship seat to be zoned to an indigene of the town.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has scheduled the governorship election for August 8, 2026.
Despite Osogbo’s pivotal role in the state’s political landscape over the past 34 years, no indigene has ever governed Osun.
Speaking during a radio programme, High Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, the Baale of Gbodofon and Chairman of the Council of Baales in Osogbo, revealed that traditional and community leaders have resolved to speak with one voice to actualise their long-standing ambition.
He commended the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, for establishing the Osogbo Action Committee and the Osogbo Elders Council, bodies he said have successfully bridged divisions among stakeholders in the town.
“All Baales in Osogbo are now united behind this cause. We fully support the Elders Council and are determined to ensure that Osogbo produces the next governor,” Ibrahim said.
Echoing the sentiment, Prince Adeleke Oduola Ibiloye, Chairman of the Osogbo Elders Council, noted that Osogbo has consistently supported candidates from other parts of the state in previous elections. He insisted that it is now time for the favour to be returned.
“We have always stood by others in their political pursuits. Now, it is Osogbo’s turn, and we are prepared to make it happen,” Ibiloye declared.
With several prominent indigenes already positioning themselves to contest under the platforms of the APC, PDP, and ADC, the leaders expressed confidence that the 2026 election will finally produce the first Osogbo-born governor in the state’s history.
Osun 2026: Osogbo leaders demand to produce next governor after 34 years