By John Dike, Osogbo
All Progressives Congress’s National Secretary, Dr. Ajibola Basiru, has explained why he is contesting the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
He said he believed that the state needs a leader with integrity, capacity, and clear vision to chart a new course.
Basiru, who is also a governorship aspirant under the APC banner, spoke during an interview with journalists in Osogbo on Thursday.
He said his decision to contest the governorship stemmed from calls by stakeholders within and outside Osun State, who believe in his ability to reposition the state and reunite the progressive family.
According to him, “I decided to contest the governorship of Osun State because I firmly believe that our state is at a crossroads.
“We need a leader with integrity, expertise, character, ideological depth, vision, and administrative experience”.
The former senator, who represented Osun Central in the 9th National Assembly, highlighted his track record in public service.
He noted that his political journey has spanned nearly two decades, beginning as Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties (2010 –2014) and later serving as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice under Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
“In those roles, I implemented policies that advanced welfare-oriented governance, promoted the rule of law, and fostered stronger ties among South-West states,” he said.
Basiru also served as Senate Committee Chairman on Media and Public Affairs, acting as the official spokesperson of the 9th Senate.
Despite being a first-time senator, he held prominent roles and influenced legislative affairs significantly.
Following his term in the Senate, he was appointed APC National Secretary in August 2023 by President Bola Tinubu —a position he described as a testament to his competence and capacity to foster party unity and internal democracy.
On his motivations, Basiru pointed to what he described as the glaring underperformance of the current administration led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, education, and healthcare.
He said, “The present administration lacks direction and has failed in the effective management of our resources — especially in the critical areas of teachers’ welfare, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
“My aspiration is not just political, it is a moral obligation to revive our state”.
A Vision for a New Osun
Basiru outlined his vision for a prosperous Osun State anchored on economic self-sufficiency, modern agricultural practices, mechanisation, SME growth, improved education, and quality healthcare.
“I see an Osun where youths are empowered through skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship. We will industrialise the state, support rural development, and ensure inclusive governance that reaches every community,” he promised.
With a PhD in Law and a distinguished legal career, Basiru said his approach to governance would be rooted in justice, due process, and empathy.
“As a legal scholar and professional, every policy under my watch will align with constitutional principles. Governance must be inclusive, people-driven, and built on fairness and compassion,” he said.
On ADC, Aregbesola, and Party Politics
Reacting to recent political realignments, especially the formation of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) by his former principal, Engr. Rauf Aregbesola, Basiru said he is unperturbed by any coalition or political movements.
He said , “Democracy thrives on plurality. Everyone has the right to political expression. Engr. Aregbesola is entitled to his decisions, just as many of us remain committed to the ideals of the APC”.
He emphasized that the APC remains strong, with deep grassroots structures and a clear message to the people of Osun.
According to him, the party is not distracted by political drama but focused on unity and service delivery.
“Our strength lies not in personalities but in our vision, structure, and trust of the people. We are prepared to win based on substance, not sentiment,” he added.
On Zoning and Equity
Responding to concerns that it may not be the turn of Osun Central Senatorial District to produce the next governor, Basiru dismissed zoning as a formal political principle in the state.
“In the history of Osun, all three senatorial zones have produced governors. Zoning has never been a constitutional or formal agreement. Anyone with vision and competence should be allowed to contest. That’s the beauty of democracy,” he argued.
A People-Focused Government
Basiru painted a picture of the Osun State he envisions if elected governor.
“We will develop a vibrant economy driven by agriculture and tourism. Osun is blessed with fertile land, rich cultural heritage, and a youthful population that only needs the right leadership to thrive”.
He promised to invest in agro-processing hubs, open up rural infrastructure, develop tourism assets, and ensure access to basic healthcare for all citizens.
Nasiru affirmed, “My dream is an Osun that is peaceful, united, and prosperous. A state where government listens to its people and delivers real results. That is the leadership I intend to offer”.
