It’s our turn: Osogbo leaders demand zoning, rally for 2026 governorship ticket

Community leaders in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, have joined forces to demand that the 2026 governorship seat be given to an indigene of Osogbo.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed August 8, 2026, for the governorship election.
Despite Osogbo’s strong influence in Osun politics since the state was created 34 years ago, no one from the town has ever become governor.

Speaking on a radio programme, High Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, the Baale of Gbodofon and Chairman of the Council of Baales in Osogbo, said the town is now united in its call to produce the next governor.

He praised the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, for setting up the Osogbo Action Committee and the Osogbo Elders Council, which helped to end divisions among Osogbo leaders.

He said, “All Baales in Osogbo now speak with one voice. We fully support the Elders Council and are determined to ensure that Osogbo produces the next governor.”

Also speaking, Prince Adeleke Oduola Ibiloye, Chairman of the Osogbo Elders Council, said Osogbo has supported other parts of the state in past elections and now deserves their support in return.

“We have always stood by others. Now it is Osogbo’s turn. We are ready to make it happen,” he said.

With many prominent Osogbo indigenes preparing to contest under the APC, PDP, and ADC, the leaders expressed confidence that 2026 will finally mark the first time an Osogbo-born candidate becomes governor.