Oyebamiji APC Osun: To Pursue Election Petition After Poll

• Bola Oyebamiji of the APC congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory in the August 15, 2026 Osun governorship election as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
• Oyebamiji alleged attacks on small and medium-sized businesses and demanded an end to killings, harassment, and intimidation of APC members, claiming over 35 members were lost to violence.
• The APC candidate stated the party would pursue justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means regarding the electoral processes.
• Oyebamiji called on Governor Adeleke, as Chief Security Officer, to protect lives and property, especially during the sensitive post-election period.
• Adeleke was declared winner by INEC with 511,067 votes, while Oyebamiji polled 444,815 votes.

The APC candidate stated the party would pursue justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means regarding the electoral processes.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared Governor Ademola Adeleke as the winner of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State. According to the results announced by Prof Joshua Ogunwole, the State Returning Officer, Governor Adeleke secured 511,067 votes. His closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji, who ran on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), garnered 444,815 votes in the Osun governorship election.

Following the declaration, Bola Oyebamiji extended his congratulations to Governor Adeleke on his victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election. However, in an address to APC supporters and members dated Saturday, August 29, obtained in Osogbo, Oyebamiji also raised serious concerns regarding the post-election environment. He alleged that small and medium-sized businesses were being attacked due to their owners' perceived political affiliations or lack of allegiance to the state's ruling party.

Furthermore, Oyebamiji demanded an immediate cessation of killings, harassment, and intimidation targeting APC members and supporters across Osun State. He specifically recalled various incidents of violence that occurred both before and during the governorship poll, stating that the APC had lost more than 35 members to the mayhem. He urged the police to conduct thorough investigations into these killings and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Despite the election outcome, Bola Oyebamiji affirmed the All Progressives Congress's unwavering commitment to the rule of law. He stated that the party would continue to pursue justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means, particularly concerning its electoral processes. This declaration came after extensive consultations with party elders and critical stakeholders, which were initiated following the declaration of the Osun poll results to determine the party's next steps, indicating potential APC Osun post-election legal options.

Oyebamiji encouraged APC members and supporters not to be disheartened or despair, urging them to remain resolute, sustain their faith in democracy, and maintain confidence in the institutions established to protect democratic rights. He also took the opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for their support during the governorship project.

Looking ahead, Oyebamiji called upon APC members in Osun State to rededicate themselves to the crucial task of mobilizing support for President Tinubu and other party candidates in the upcoming 2027 general elections. He emphasized the importance of closing ranks, strengthening party structures, and working tirelessly to secure undeniable victories for the President and all APC candidates within the state. This focus on future electoral success underscores the party's long-term strategic objectives beyond the immediate Osun governorship election legal challenge.

In his address, Oyebamiji specifically called upon Governor Ademola Adeleke, in his capacity as the Chief Security Officer of Osun State, to fulfill his constitutional responsibility by doing everything necessary to protect the lives and property of all citizens. This appeal was particularly highlighted as crucial during what Oyebamiji described as a sensitive post-election period, given the reported incidents of political violence and business harassment, which could lead to further Nigeria electoral dispute resolution efforts.

He articulated a broader vision for Osun State, emphasizing that democracy serves as a means to advance the aspirations and welfare of the populace. Oyebamiji expressed the party's determination to move forward with faith, aiming for a greater Osun where collective resources are equitably deployed, opportunities are accessible to all, and governance genuinely serves the greater good of the people rather than narrow or clannish interests. This perspective frames the ongoing situation within the context of broader principles of good governance and societal well-being, even amidst the Ademola Adeleke Osun victory challenge.

Lawyers and compliance officers should monitor the potential filing of an election petition challenging the Osun governorship poll results, as this could impact electoral law precedents or political stability in the state. Additionally, the allegations of political violence and business harassment may lead to further legal actions or investigations that require attention.

Source: Reporting based on a PUNCH news article.