By John Dike, jOsogbo
Marine and Blue Economy minister, Gboyega Oyetola, has withdrawn from the coming governorship election in Osun State.
This has rested the speculations about his purported comeback bid.
The minister’s supporters in the All Progressives Congress (APC) have all along been pushing for his return to the the Abere Government House.
His supporters saw him as a top contender, with party insiders suggesting he could receive the “right of first refusal” for the party’s ticket — a gesture of deference to his stature as a former governor and current federal minister.
However, in a move that signals strategic retreat and a call for generational renewal within the APC, Oyetola announced his withdrawal from the coming poll.
Instead, he threw his weight behind the need for party unity and internal democracy.
In a statement released through his media office, Oyetola urged the party’s governorship aspirants to consult widely, embrace dialogue, and carry party members and leaders along in their ambition.
He said,“As a party, our strength lies in our unity and our ability to work together for a common cause.
“I believe it is time to give room for new energy and fresh ideas while we rally around the collective interest of our great party”..
The minister wished all aspirants well in their pursuit of the party’s ticket, and encouraged them to prioritise party cohesion above personal ambition.
“I will continue to play my part in building a stronger APC, not only in Osun but nationally. My commitment to the success of our party is unwavering,” he added.
Oyetola’s exit from the race is likely to have significant implications on the internal dynamics of the Osun APC.
As a respected figure within the party, his endorsement or support could sway the balance in favor of any aspirant he chooses to back.
He served as the Governor of Osun State from 2018 to 2022, before losing his re-election bid to the current Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Following his defeat, Oyetola was appointed Minister of Marine and Blue Economy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023, a role which allowed him to remain politically relevant both within Osun and nationally.
With Oyetola out of the race, the field has now widened for other APC aspirants who have already begun mobilising for the party’s ticket.
Among those who have expressed interest are:
- Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority and a close ally of Oyetola;
- Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary of the APC and former Senate spokesperson:
- Dotun Babayemi, a former chieftain of the PDP who recently joined the APC;
- Akin Ogunbiyi, businessman and 2018 governorship contender on the Accord Party’s banner; and
- Babajide Omoworare, former lawmaker who represented Osun East in the National Assembly.
These aspirants have begun making consultations with critical stakeholders at the local government and ward levels, with the 2026 APC governorship primary expected to be highly competitive.
Party watchers say Oyetola’s withdrawal may allow for a more level playing field, but they caution that maintaining internal peace will depend on how the APC manages the upcoming primaries.
For now, Oyetola’s message is clear: The focus must shift from personalities to party progress, and only a united APC can reclaim the governorship seat from the PDP in 2026.
