Osun 2026: APC Aspirant Denies Presidential Anointing, Calls for Level Playing Field

The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, has dismissed rumors that President Bola Tinubu has endorsed any candidate for the Osun State 2026 governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner.

Oyebamiji, a former Finance Commissioner under two previous Osun administrations, made the clarification during his consultation tour of Ifedayo and Odo Otin Local Government Areas on Saturday. The gubernatorial hopeful emphasized that all APC aspirants remain on equal footing in the race to unseat the current opposition government.

“Let me be clear – no aspirant has received any special endorsement from either the President or party leadership,” Oyebamiji told party faithful in Oke Ila. “We’re all qualified candidates united by our common goal to return APC to power in Osun.”

The NIWA boss used the occasion to mobilize voter registration, urging residents to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards ahead of the crucial election. His message resonated strongly in Ifedayo LGA where local APC chairman Abiodun Idowu declared majority support for Oyebamiji’s candidacy.

Political observers note the Osun APC primary is shaping up to be highly competitive, with about 10 prominent contenders including former cabinet members and legislators vying for the ticket. Oyebamiji’s financial expertise and government experience are seen as key assets in his bid.