Defections won’t stop APC victory in Osun gov poll — Party chieftain
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, asserted that recent party defections will not impact the APC's chances in the upcoming governorship election.
- Oyintiloye described the defections as a normal political occurrence and emphasized the APC's strong grassroots structure and loyal membership.
- He expressed confidence in the party's candidate, Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), citing his acceptability and competence as key factors for victory.
Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Nigeria, has dismissed concerns over recent party defections, asserting they will not undermine the APC's prospects in the upcoming August 15 governorship election.
Oyintiloye characterized the departures as a typical feature of political cycles, particularly during election periods. He maintained that these defections pose no significant threat to the APC's determination to regain power in the state. "The APC in Osun is bigger than any individual or group of individuals," Oyintiloye stated, emphasizing the party's extensive grassroots network that reaches all wards, polling units, communities, and local government areas.
The APC in Osun is bigger than any individual or group of individuals.
He further elaborated on the party's resilience, stating, "Our party is built on a solid foundation that has endured for decades. We have a resilient structure, loyal membership, and an ever-expanding support base across the state." Oyintiloye believes those who perceive the APC as weakened by the exit of a few members are out of touch with the political realities on the ground, asserting that the party's strength lies with the people, who remain firmly supportive.
Our party is built on a solid foundation that has endured for decades. We have a resilient structure, loyal membership, and an ever-expanding support base across the state.
The APC chieftain also highlighted the positive impact of Bola Oyebamiji, the party's governorship candidate, often referred to as AMBO. Oyintiloye noted that Oyebamiji's emergence has significantly boosted party morale and generated enthusiasm among voters. He cited Oyebamiji's acceptability, competence, humility, accessibility, and public service experience as qualities that position him as the preferred choice. "The people have identified with his vision, and they are eager to entrust him with the responsibility of leading Osun to greater heights," he added.
Oyintiloye concluded by urging party members to remain united and focused on grassroots mobilization, emphasizing that collective commitment and hard work are essential for victory. He stressed that this is a time for unity and engagement, not distraction or pessimism, as ongoing consultations and reconciliation efforts continue to strengthen internal cohesion.
The people have identified with his vision, and they are eager to entrust him with the responsibility of leading Osun to greater heights.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.