The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed that its governorship candidate for Osun State’s 2026 election will be selected through affirmation, rather than a competitive primary.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, chairman of the APC governorship screening and primary committee, disclosed this on Friday, December 12, 2025, during a briefing in Osogbo, Osun State.
According to Okpebholo, the committee has concluded its screening process, and a consensus candidate has emerged. He emphasised that the affirmation process is intended to consolidate party unity and avoid internal disputes ahead of the 2026 governorship elections.
“Our goal is to ensure a smooth, credible, and peaceful primary that reflects the party’s commitment to cohesion and grassroots participation,” he stated.
Osun State APC has faced recurring factional tensions in recent years, with rival interest groups occasionally threatening to derail the party’s nomination processes.
Analysts say that using affirmation as a method can help the party sidestep possible conflicts, minimise litigation risks, and present a united front against opposition parties.
The APC governorship primary is closely watched, as Osun remains a highly competitive state politically. The party’s decision to adopt affirmation follows consultations with party elders, stakeholders, and key influencers across local government areas.
Sources say that the affirmation route allows delegates to show broad consensus, confirming a candidate who already enjoys widespread support within the party.
Governor Okpebholo also highlighted that the affirmation method aligns with the party’s broader national strategy of fostering internal democracy while preventing divisions that could undermine electoral chances.
He assured that all eligible party members will have the opportunity to participate in the affirmation process, noting that transparency and fairness remain top priorities.
Political commentators have suggested that the candidate expected to be affirmed enjoys strong grassroots support and is considered the preferred choice of both the national leadership and influential APC figures in Osun.
This approach, observers say, positions the party to focus on general election preparations rather than being consumed by internal disputes.
Opposition parties in Osun, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), are likely to intensify their campaigns, but the APC’s affirmation process is expected to limit infighting and enhance voter mobilisation efforts.
Analysts predict that the move could significantly strengthen APC’s electoral machinery, ensuring a coherent and strategic campaign for 2026.
Okpebholo concluded by urging all party members to rally behind the affirmed candidate, warning that unity and collective action will be key to winning the governorship and consolidating APC’s influence in the state.
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