Osun 2026 : APC’s Ajibola Bashiru withdraws from guber race

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has officially withdrawn from the party’s governorship race ahead of the 2026 election in Osun State.

Basiru announced his decision on Saturday in Osogbo during the opening of Alubarika House, the new office of his political movement.

His withdrawal comes less than three weeks before the APC primary scheduled for December 13.

He explained that after meeting with party leaders across the state and considering his current national responsibilities, he decided not to run. He also said he consulted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu before making the decision.

Basiru said his withdrawal does not mean he is stepping back from politics. Instead, he promised to continue supporting the APC and helping to develop new leaders who will promote the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu.

He added that Alubarika House will be used for political activities and empowerment programmes. He also donated ₦50 million to start the movement’s projects.

With Basiru out, about 13 aspirants remain in the race for the APC ticket. Some of them include:

Bola Oyebamiji, former MD of the National Inland Waterways Authority

Senator Babajide Omoworare, former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and Business

Senator Iyiola Omisore, former Deputy Governor

Dotun Babayemi, lawyer and son of the former Olufi of Gbongan

Benedict Alabi, former Deputy Governor

Akin Ogunbiyi, Chairman of Mutual Assurance Benefits

Kunle Adegoke (SAN), senior advocate of Nigeria.