The Progressive Frontliners (TPF) and Coalition of Osun APC Interest Group (COAIG), have called on leadership of the party to urgently address alleged marginalisation of Osun West senatorial district as the 2026 governorship election approaches.
Coordinators of the groups, Ademola Rukayat, Michael Idowu and Samuel Iwolode, who spoke separately in Osogbo, Wednesday, said the marginalisation of Osun West played a significant role in the past electoral defeats, warning that leadership of the party must address the matter as 2026 governorship election nears.
According to the groups, since the return of democracy in 1999, the distribution of political power within the progressive party had not been equitable, noting that the zone had never been granted the opportunity to have a representative competing for the gubernatorial seat.
“As we look forward to the 2026 Osun state governorship election, it is imperative that we correct this oversight. By then, it will be nearly three decades since the seat of governance has remained out of Osun West’s reach, despite our steadfast commitment to the party’s ideals.
“Our appeal today is directed at our esteemed President, His Excellency Bola Tinubu and Chief Adebisi Akande, who are not just leaders but father figures to the APC members. We respectfully urge them to lend an ear to the earnest appeals of their children from Osun.
“This moment calls for compassionate leadership and the recognition of the vital role Osun West has played within the party. We also extend this appeal to our leaders at both national and state levels, imploring them to consider Osun West in the upcoming electoral cycle.
“Osun West has paid its dues, contributing significantly to the party’s strength and development at all levels. It is time we honour these contributions by granting the district the chance to reclaim its rightful position in the governance of our state. We must seize this opportunity to usher in a new era that embraces inclusivity and justice for all segments within our party.
“Granting Osun West the gubernatorial ticket is not merely about political redistribution, it is about recognising the district’s untiring commitment to the advancement of APC’s vision and values.
“This gesture will not only bolster the party’s standing in the eyes of its supporters but it will also act as a beacon of hope and unity, demonstrating that every district is integral to our collective progress.
“We urge our party leaders to take decisive action, ensuring that Osun West is not just heard but is actively engaged and represented within the spheres of governance. Let us move together towards a more balanced political landscape, where every district stands as a testament to the values we hold dear.
“Together, we can reclaim the state from the PDP, the current occupant of Oke fia government house and reinforce the true spirit of democracy, underscored by fairness, equity, and shared progress,” the groups said.
