The political atmosphere in Osun State has reached a fever pitch as the race for the upcoming governorship election enters its final stretch.
With 14 candidates on the ballot representing over 2.3 million registered voters, political analysts note that the contest has narrowed into a fierce three-way battle between incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and Dr. Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.
Interestingly, all three frontline contenders hail from the Osun West Senatorial District and bring extensive political and administrative experience from both state and national levels.
Seeking a second term, Governor Adeleke anchors his campaign on infrastructural development, urban renewal, and regularizing salary payments. Supporters point to his strong rapport with civil servants and grassroots groups as a major advantage.
Bola Oyebamiji, a former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, banks on his administrative experience and party structure, though critics note this is his first elective contest.
Dr. Najeem Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, leverages a solid legislative background and the backing of allies of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, particularly within his native Ejigbo axis.
Civil society groups say the competitive race will push candidates to actively campaign for voters’ confidence ahead of the polls.
