President Tinubu’s Minister clears air on decision to contest Osun State Guber poll

President Tinubu’s Minister clears air on decision to contest Osun State Guber poll

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has announced he will not contest in the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

Speaking at a meeting with All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Osogbo on Friday, Oyetola, who served as governor from 2018 to 2022, said his decision to step aside does not change the party’s determination to reclaim the state from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) next year.

He emphasised that the APC’s return to power is “non-negotiable.”

Oyetola, who lost his re-election bid to Governor Ademola Adeleke of the PDP, assured party members that the APC is rich with competent and capable individuals ready to lead.
He described this as the party’s “unique selling proposition” and pledged continued support for national development initiatives.

Urging aspirants within the party to run peaceful and respectful campaigns, Oyetola warned against divisive politics, urging unity and mutual respect among contenders.

He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to a strong comeback in the state, describing the party as well-positioned to unseat Adeleke.

On national politics, Oyetola downplayed the significance of emerging political coalitions aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu, stating that such efforts pose no real threat to the ruling party.

“It is crystal clear that the coalition is drifting to collapse,” he said.
“This has no iota of effect on us, particularly in Osun.
“We knew this since it is the same TOP that metamorphosed to Omoluabi and later ADC.
“We are resolute to come victorious in the future elections, and this is incontestable.”