By Adesakin Adefemi
November 22, 2025
Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (2026 Osun State governorship election aspirant and a member of the party’s National Working Committee), has announced his withdrawal from the 2026 Osun State governorship election. Basiru cited his heavy national responsibilities and the need to consolidate the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 general elections as reasons for his decision.
In a statement, Basiru said, “Considering the enormous responsibilities of my current office as National Secretary of our great party, and after due consultations with our esteemed leaders and stakeholders, particularly the Leader of our party and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it has become necessary to emphatically state that I shall not be contesting the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election”.
Basiru’s decision has reshaped early political expectations in Osun State, leaving about 13 aspirants in contention for the APC ticket. These include former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji; former Senate Committee Chairman on Rules and Business, Senator Babajide Omoworare; and former Deputy Governor, Senator Iyiola Omisore, among others.
Basiru’s withdrawal is seen as a significant development in Nigerian politics, highlighting his commitment to putting national interests above personal ambitions. His decision is expected to impact the party’s dynamics and the overall political landscape in Osun State.
By withdrawing from the governorship election, Basiru is expected to focus on his role as National Secretary, working to strengthen the party’s structure and prepare for the 2027 general elections. This move is seen as a demonstration of his commitment to the party’s success and stability.
Basiru’s decision has been met with appreciation from his supporters, who acknowledge his selflessness and dedication to the party. His withdrawal is also expected to create a vacuum in the governorship election, which other aspirants will seek to fill.
The APC has not officially commented on Basiru’s withdrawal, but party officials are expected to meet to discuss the implications of his decision. The party’s governorship primary election is expected to be held soon, and Basiru’s withdrawal has added a new layer of complexity to the process.
Basiru’s withdrawal has also sparked speculation about his future plans. Some have suggested that he may be eyeing a different political position, possibly at the national level. However, Basiru has not made any public statements about his future plans.
Overall, Basiru’s withdrawal from the Osun governorship election is a significant development in Nigerian politics, highlighting the complexities and challenges of party politics.
