The Forum of Local Government Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State has said the current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, remains its preferred candidate for the 2026 governorship election in the state.
It, however, said that if Oyetola chooses not to re-contest, he should be allowed to guide the party in its choice of candidate for the election.
The group made this known in a statement signed by its chairman, Mr Rufus Awotidoye, after its meeting hosted by the Executive Director (Projects Implementation) of the Federal Housing Authority, Mr Remi Omowaiye, in Osogbo.
Commending Oyetola’s leadership and his ability to hold the party together since it surrendered power in the state, the chairmen noted the ex-governor’s financial and moral support for the party since it became opposition in the state.
The statement obtained on Tuesday read partly, “Our Leader, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, is our Candidate for the 2026 election. We want him to contest so he can complete his constitutionally recognized two terms.
“Unless he declines to run, we are solidly behind him for the 2026 election. However, in the event that he chooses not to contest, we hold that he remains the main decider of whom the ticket should be extended to.
“We believe in the good judgment of Oyetola and his capacity to show direction regarding 2026 because he has shown over the years that he is a stickler for equity, justice, and fairness.”
In his remarks at the event, Omowaiye lauded the Forum’s steadfastness and assured its members that the party was ready to regain power in 2026.
He called on Nigerians to continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration and reassured them that the reforms of the Federal Government in the petroleum and housing sectors would continue to yield the desired results.
The release stated that the meeting was attended by 58 out of the 69 APC local government Chairmen in the State, as well as some other prominent party leaders.