By John Dike, Osogbo
At least 1,500 local government and ward coordinators of the Oyetola Consultative Forum (OCF) on Wednesday endorsed the gubernatorial aspiration of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), a leading contender for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket ahead of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election.
The group pledged to mobilize en masse to ensure Oyebamiji’s victory in both the APC primaries and the general election.
Speaking during the inauguration of local stakeholders and ward coordinators of the Forum, the Convener of OCF, Hon. Olanike Omoworare, declared that the group’s full endorsement of Oyebamiji was a collective and strategic decision aimed at strengthening grassroots political structures across the state.
Omoworare, Nigeria’s first female Deputy Speaker and current Board Member of the Southwest Development Commission (SWDC), stated that the OCF, originally created to resolve internal party disputes during former Governor Oyetola’s second-term bid, has evolved into a formidable grassroots mobilization platform.
“We are just getting started. This meeting marks the inauguration of 1,500 ward coordinators across the state,” Omoworare said. “Each of them will go on to inaugurate unit-level coordinators, ensuring every polling unit is covered.”
She added that each ward coordinator controls a significant support base, projecting the Forum’s reach to over 15,000 committed supporters.
Highlighting Oyebamiji’s public service record, Omoworare described his candidacy as “noble and worthwhile,” citing his two-term service as Commissioner for Finance and tenure as Managing Director of the Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL).
“Osun needs someone with integrity, competence, and a clean record — someone like Oyebamiji, who has never had issues with the EFCC. He’s a trusted technocrat and public servant, and his track record speaks volumes,” she said.
Omoworare stressed the need for continuity and competence, warning against entrusting the state to “controversial figures.” She added that Oyebamiji’s credibility and public appeal stretch beyond the APC into the wider Osun populace.
In his remarks, Hon. Abdulgafar Amere, a former member of the House of Representatives, described Oyebamiji as a unifying figure with a strong connection to elders, youths, and women within the progressive fold.
Amere expressed confidence in Oyebamiji’s ability to win both the APC primary and the general election, crediting his inclusive leadership style and political maturity.
Also speaking, Otunba Femi Aborisade, an APC chieftain, called on party members to rally behind Oyebamiji, describing him as a vibrant, prudent, and competent leader who understands the needs of Osun people.
“He is capable, prepared, and understands the real challenges facing Osun citizens. He’s ready to deliver practical solutions. That’s the kind of leadership we need in 2026,” Aborisade said.
The event drew several key APC figures, includes : Hon. Abiodun Awolola and Hon. Adekoyejo Bamidele – Former Members, Osun State House of Assemble, Prince Babatunde Olawale – Former Commissioner for Science, Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Folake Olaniyan Former SSA on O’Meals, deaconess Sola Ayangbile – Osun APC Welfare Director, Hon. Kazeem Yusuf and Hon. Wale Daudu and several other grassroots leaders and stakeholders
