Why I won’t be in 2027 Osun Central Senatorial race – Oyetola

By Isa Isawade

The son of Alh. Adegboyega Oyetola, former Osun governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Femi Oyetola, on Monday withdrew from the contest for the Osun Central Senatorial district ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of commencement of primary.

Friends, political associates and supporters of Femi Oyetola had obtained the senatorial ticket of the party for him to contest under the party banner in 2027.

But Femi, in a letter dated 18th of May 2026 personally signed by him and addressed to the Chairman of APC, Tajudeen Lawal, withdrew from the race.

He stated that he didn’t decide to let his supporters down but that his decision to withdraw was based on his commitment to unity of and loyalty to the party.

“I write with deep respect, gratitude, and an abiding commitment to the unity and progress of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to formally withdraw my aspiration to contest for the Osun Central Senatorial seat.

“This decision was not made lightly, especially considering the overwhelming encouragement, sacrifices, and unwavering support shown by the vibrant youths and committed stakeholders across Osun Central who voluntarily purchased the nomination form on my behalf. Their confidence in my leadership and their desire to see a new generation actively contribute to governance remain one of the greatest honours of my political journey.”

He explained that after extensive consultations and intervention of the leadership of his party, he decided to step down from the contest in the overall interest of the unity, stability, and electoral success of the APC.

“As loyal party men and women, we must always place the collective interest of the party above personal ambition. I remain fully committed to the ideals and vision of our great party and will continue to work tirelessly with our leaders, members, and especially the youths, toward strengthening the APC and ensuring victory for all our candidates in future elections.

“I urge all my supporters and political associates to remain calm, steadfast, and united behind the leadership and decisions of the party. This is not the end of our collective aspirations, but rather another demonstration of sacrifice, discipline, and dedication to party cohesion.”

Femi commended his supporters for their solidarity, saying “I am profoundly humbled by this uncommon demonstration of love, belief, and solidarity.

“To every young person, supporter, and party faithful who stood with this movement, I say thank you sincerely. Your passion for the growth of our party and the development of Osun Central will never be taken for granted.”