Ex-Osun State Information commissioner, Oluomo Sunday Akere
A former Commissioner for Information in Osun State, and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Oluomo Sunday Akere has said that the party remains united and focused on reclaiming the state from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He dismissed speculations of internal discord within the party’s ranks, insisting that the party remains solid and prepared for the August 8, 2026 governorship election.
Akere spoke in an exclusive interview in Osogbo, the state capital in response to growing rumours of cracks within the APC in the state, and particularly in the light of the influx of aspirants expressing interest in contesting the party’s governorship ticket.
He described the allegations of division as unfounded and politically motivated.
Akere, who was the Commissioner for Information in the former Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration, and later Senior Special Adviser on Political Matters to ex-Governor Gboyega Oyetola, said such claims were the handiwork of mischief-makers and opposition elements threatened by the party’s growing popularity across the state.
He said, “There is absolutely no division in the APC. Those insinuating otherwise are either confused or deliberately attempting to destabilize our party because they can see our growing momentum heading into the 2026 election”.
The former commissioner said that the increasing number of aspirants vying for the APC ticket should not be mistaken for a crisis, but rather should be seen as a healthy sign of internal democracy and the party’s strength as a political force.
His words, “When you see credible and capable individuals jostling to fly the party’s flag, it means we’re doing something right. It speaks to the confidence people have in the APC. We are a vibrant, democratic platform that encourages participation. And whoever emerges as our candidate will have the full support of the entire party”.
He also emphasized the APC’s readiness to take back power in the forthcoming election, pointing to growing dissatisfaction with the Peoples Demands Party, PDP-led administration in the state.
“Since 2022, what the people have witnessed under the PDP is more about drama and propaganda than meaningful governance. The citizens are disappointed, and they are ready to effect change. We are coming with a clear plan to rescue Osun from underperformance and restore purposeful leadership,” he said.
On speculations about a possible reconciliation or alliance with the Omoluabi Progressives, a splinter group loyal to former Governor Aregbesola, Akere stated categorically that no such alliance is being considered at the party level.
His words, “Let me be clear. No one in the APC today is seeking an alliance or merger with the Omoluabi Progressives under Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. The party is focused on unity and strength, not distractions. Our mission is to build a winning coalition within the APC, not outside of it”.
He, however, acknowledged that informal discussions may occur with individuals in the faction due to personal ties and shared political history.
“You can’t entirely rule out conversations with individuals, especially those who recognize that aligning with third-force parties is a dead end. Many of them know that returning to the mainstream APC is their only realistic chance of political relevance,” he said.
Akere reiteratef the party’s commitment to a peaceful and issue-based campaign that would mobilise voters across the state.
He said, “We are building consensus, reconciling minor differences, and reaching out to every corner of the state. From the grassroots to the top leadership, the APC is organising and strategising to win. The PDP knows their time is up. Come August 8, 2026, the people of Osun will speak with their votes”.
