As the political landscape in Osun State heats up ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) finds itself at a pivotal moment.
Following a hard-fought loss in 2022, the party’s selection of a flagbearer is critical for reclaiming the Government House in Osogbo. In this high-stakes environment, one name stands out not just as a candidate, but as the most strategic choice: Senator Iyiola Omisore.
Omisore represents a potent blend of technical expertise, political sagacity, and unwavering party loyalty. His candidacy is backed by a proven vision for development that aligns perfectly with Osun State’s current needs.
A Pedigree of Technical Competence and Governance Experience
Senator Iyiola Omisore is no newcomer to the political arena. His extensive experience speaks volumes:
· Deputy Governor: Serving as the first Deputy Governor of Osun State under Chief Adebisi Akande, Omisore gained a comprehensive understanding of the state’s administrative framework and challenges.
· Senator: Representing Osun East Senatorial District, he chaired the Senate Committee on Appropriations. His role was instrumental in shaping national budgets and securing critical federal projects for Osun and the South-West.
· Academic and Technical Expertise: He holds a Master’s degree in Building Services Engineering and a PhD in Infrastructure Engineering Finance. This unparalleled academic background equips him with the expert knowledge to manage state resources, finance complex projects, and execute development plans sustainably.In a time when accountability and results are crucial, Omisore offers a leadership style grounded in competence and practicality.
– A Proven Capacity to Deliver Development
Omisore’s previous positions have equipped him with the tools to attract the federal partnerships essential for Osun’s growth. As Governor, his ability to:
· Secure Federal Projects: His networks and understanding of the federal system would be pivotal in attracting investments in infrastructure, health, and education.
· Manage State Budgets: His technical and financial acumen would allow him to prioritize capital projects effectively, ensuring value for money—a critical factor for reviving the state’s economy.
The Architect of APC’s Ascendancy in the South-West
Omisore’s strategic brilliance was instrumental in the 2018 Osun gubernatorial election. His leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) forged a powerful coalition with the APC, a move that was vital in delivering victory to the APC’s Gboyega Oyetola in the rerun election.This experience highlights three key qualities:
1. Unparalleled Influence and Electoral Strength: His political stronghold, the Osun East Senatorial District, is now the APC’s strongest base in the state—a fact cemented by the historic defection of the sitting Senator and three Members of the House of Representatives from the PDP to the APC on the floor of the National Assembly.
2. Strategic Insight: His acute understanding of Osun’s political terrain makes him a master strategist.
3. Party Loyalty: Since formally joining the APC, he has remained a steadfast member, actively working for the party’s success, including in his role as National Secretary.
A Unifier with Broad-Based Appeal
The 2023 Presidential election revealed significant fractures within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Omisore’s history demonstrates his ability to bridge these divides:
· Internal Reconciliation: His stature as a seasoned leader enables him to mediate between various factions within the APC, fostering unity ahead of the election.
· Broad Political Network: His past affiliations and coalition-building success allow him to reach out to disaffected voters, building a broad coalition capable of winning.
Cultural Connectivity and Vision for the Future
Hailing from Ile-Ife, the ancestral home of the Yoruba people, Omisore possesses a deep cultural connection to Osun. This fosters trust and allows for governance rooted in the people’s realities.
His vision for a modernized Osun focuses on:
· Technological Advancement: Promoting e-governance and digital infrastructure.
· Economic Diversification: Moving away from dependency on federal allocations by utilizing Osun’s abundant resources.
· Educational Reform: Strengthening the education system to produce a skilled workforce prepared for future challenges.
Addressing the Past, Focused on the FutureIt is vital to set the record straight regarding past allegations.
Senator Omisore was tried for the murder of former Attorney General Bola Ige and was unequivocally discharged and acquitted by the courts.
Furthermore, he successfully sued the Oyo State government for malicious prosecution and was awarded two billion naira in damages—a definitive legal vindication.
To focus on these disproven allegations is to ignore the evidence of his commitment to progress. The 2026 election should center on the future and the practical issues affecting the populace, such as infrastructure, education, employment, and governance.
These are the topics that should define Omisore’s “Engineer’s Plan for Osun.”
National Recognition: A Trusted Kingmaker
Senator Omisore’s strategic importance extends beyond Osun State. His pivotal role in national politics was publicly acknowledged by none other than President Bola Tinubu.
In his presidential election victory acceptance speech, President Tinubu singled out Omisore for special appreciation, stating that without him, he would not have become President.
This endorsement underscores Omisore’s immense value as a strategist and a leader capable of delivering victory on the largest stage.
Conclusion: The Winning Formula for APC
The APC’s objective is to field a candidate capable of not only winning but also governing effectively.
Senator Iyiola Omisore embodies a winning combination of:· Experience: A proven track record in both executive and legislative capacities.
· Electoral Value: His influence as a kingmaker, with a proven ability to deliver votes and a stronghold that is now the APC’s bedrock in Osun.
· Technical Competence: His expert engineering and finance background equips him to handle infrastructure and economic challenges.
· Unifying Potential: His broad appeal and capacity to bridge divides within the party and across the state.
In the strategic race for Osun 2026, nominating Senator Iyiola Omisore is not just a tactical choice—it is the strongest strategic move for the APC to ensure a decisive victory and usher in a new era of growth for Osun State. His comprehensive experience, coupled with a clear vision and commitment to good governance, positions him ideally to lead Osun into a prosperous future.
Credit: Omisore Media Team 2026
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