The Osun Unity Forum, a support group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, has unveiled an ambitious strategy to reclaim the governorship in the 2026 election. Inspired by Donald Trump’s electoral successes, the group plans to mobilize a significant bloc of new, young voters who will reach voting age by the next election. This demographic, according to the forum’s convener, Abimbola Amusan, represents a crucial voting bloc that can swing the election in the APC’s favor. The strategy hinges on engaging these young voters early, educating them about the importance of their participation in the political process, and ultimately, rallying their support behind the APC candidate. Amusan highlighted the potential impact of this demographic, citing Trump’s appeal to young voters as a key factor in his presidential victory. While the exact number of targeted young voters remains undisclosed, the forum aims to garner substantial support from this segment of the electorate.
The Osun Unity Forum’s strategy emphasizes a technocratic approach to political engagement. The group believes that young people are best suited to provide accurate and effective political orientation to their peers. Rather than portraying politics as mere fanfare, the forum aims to educate young voters about the intellectual and impactful nature of political participation. The goal is to empower these future voters to understand their crucial role in shaping the political landscape and encourage them to contribute meaningfully to the political discourse. This approach, according to the forum, will not only secure their votes but also foster a more engaged and informed citizenry.
Funding for the forum’s activities comes from committed APC members who are passionate about regaining control of the governorship. Amusan emphasized the group’s unwavering support for whichever candidate emerges as the APC flagbearer in the 2026 election. He also expressed confidence in the guidance and support of party elders as the election draws closer. This unified front, according to Amusan, demonstrates the party’s commitment to reclaiming power and sets the stage for a vigorous campaign leading up to the 2026 election.
However, the Osun State government has dismissed the APC forum’s plans as wishful thinking. Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, expressed unwavering confidence in Governor Ademola Adeleke’s reelection prospects. Alimi pointed to Adeleke’s performance in office, particularly his focus on infrastructural development across the state, as guaranteed factors that will lead to a landslide victory in 2026. He characterized the APC’s strategic focus on new voters as a futile attempt to overcome what he perceives as the governor’s overwhelming popularity and undeniable achievements.
The differing perspectives of the Osun Unity Forum and the state government highlight the emerging battle lines for the 2026 governorship election. The APC forum believes that mobilizing young voters is the key to victory, drawing parallels with successful campaigns in other countries. Conversely, the government believes that Governor Adeleke’s performance and popularity will solidify his reelection. This contrast sets the stage for a potentially intense campaign period, with both sides vying for the support of the electorate.
The 2026 Osun governorship election is shaping up to be a significant political contest. The APC, through its Unity Forum, is banking on the power of the youth vote to overturn the current political landscape. The incumbent government, however, is confident in its current trajectory and dismissive of the opposition’s plans. The coming years will undoubtedly see an intensification of political activities as both sides strive to convince the electorate of their respective visions for the future of Osun State. The outcome of this contest will significantly impact the political direction of the state and will be closely watched by political observers across the nation.
