Mudashiru Hussein, a former senator representing Osun West, has formally declared his intention to contest the Osun State governorship election in 2026 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner. His declaration, made at the party’s state secretariat in Osogbo, follows a meeting with the State Working Committee and other key stakeholders. Hussein’s political background is extensive. He served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency in Lagos for eight years (1999-2007). He later moved to the Senate, representing Osun West from 2011 to 2015. Adding to his legislative experience, Hussein has also served as a Federal Commissioner and acting Secretary to the State Government in Osun. He believes this cumulative experience positions him as a strong contender for the governorship.
Hussein’s declaration adds him to a growing list of aspirants vying for the APC ticket. Approximately twelve individuals have already expressed interest, setting the stage for a potentially competitive primary election. The eventual APC candidate will likely face the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, who is expected to seek re-election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform. This anticipated contest between the APC and PDP underscores the significance of the 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State.
During his declaration, Hussein emphasized his experience and readiness to govern. He highlighted his legislative background in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, combined with his executive experience at the federal and state levels, as evidence of his qualifications. He expressed confidence in his ability to lead Osun and bring about positive change. Hussein’s campaign message centers on his experience and his belief that he possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address the state’s challenges.
Despite his confidence, Hussein also pledged his support for any candidate chosen by the party, demonstrating a commitment to party unity. He acknowledged the qualifications of other aspirants and emphasized the importance of respecting the party’s constitution and rules. This commitment to party cohesion is crucial, especially in a contest with multiple aspirants. Maintaining unity within the APC will be vital for mounting a strong challenge against the incumbent governor in the upcoming election.
The Osun APC chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, welcomed the interest shown by multiple aspirants, viewing it as a positive sign for the party’s chances in the 2026 election. He highlighted the strength and depth within the APC, suggesting that the number of aspirants demonstrates the party’s appeal and its ability to attract qualified individuals who are eager to serve the state. The growing list of contenders creates an interesting dynamic within the APC, and the primary election promises to be a closely watched event.
Among the other aspirants vying for the APC ticket are prominent figures within the party, including the current Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji; former chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Babajide Omoworare; Dotun Babayemi, a lawyer and son of the immediate past Olufi of Gbongan; the immediate past Osun Deputy Governor, Benedict Alabi; the Chairman of Mutual Assurance Benefits, Akin Ogunbiyi; and Kunle Adegoke (SAN), a legal practitioner. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of these aspirants further highlight the potential for a highly competitive primary election. The eventual nominee will carry the weight of the APC’s hopes to reclaim the governorship in Osun State. The 2026 gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a significant political event, with the potential to reshape the political landscape of the state.
