APC Disqualifies Omisore and Six Aspirants From Osun Governorship Race

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The race for the Osun State governorship ticket under the All Progressives Congress has taken a dramatic turn after several aspirants were ruled ineligible to participate in the party’s upcoming primary election.

A screening panel established by the party concluded its review process and announced that a number of hopefuls would not be allowed to proceed to the next stage of the contest scheduled for December 13. The decision came after the committee reported inconsistencies and shortcomings in the nomination submissions of some aspirants.

Among the most prominent figures affected by the decision is former APC National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore, whose name featured prominently on the list of those disqualified. The development has sparked reactions within party circles due to Omisore’s longstanding influence in Osun politics.

Gossip News Now reports that several other individuals were also barred from the contest following the committee’s findings. Those affected include:

Babatunde Haketer Oralusi
Oyedotun Babayemi
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi
Benedict Alabi
Adegoke Rasheed Okiki
Senator Babajide Omoworare

The committee responsible for the exercise was led by Chief Obinna Uzoh, who emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and strict adherence to party rules during the screening process.

After examining the nomination documents submitted by aspirants, the panel determined that some of them failed to meet the party’s constitutional requirements. One of the major issues highlighted involved the failure to present valid sponsorship endorsements from party members across the state’s local government areas.

Under the APC’s rules, governorship aspirants are expected to provide proof that at least five fully registered and financially compliant party members from each Local Government Area support their nomination. This requirement is stipulated in the party’s constitution as well as the official guidelines governing the primary election.

The screening exercise therefore concluded that the affected aspirants did not meet this crucial requirement, leading to their removal from the race.

As a result of the review, only two aspirants were confirmed eligible to contest the party’s governorship ticket. They are Mulikat Abiola Jimoh and Munirudeen Bola Oyebanji, both of whom successfully passed the screening process.

How the Screening Was Conducted

The committee detailed its method for evaluating the aspirants, explaining that the process involved multiple stages designed to verify compliance with party regulations.

First, the panel conducted a detailed assessment of all nomination documents submitted by each aspirant. These included forms, declarations, and other supporting materials meant to confirm eligibility and authenticity.

In addition to reviewing paperwork, the committee also held structured interviews with the aspirants. During these sessions, the panel assessed several factors such as their understanding of party rules, readiness for the electoral contest, and their compliance with established nomination procedures.

The committee explained that these steps were essential to ensure that only qualified individuals progressed to the primary election stage.

Petition Influenced Screening Decision

Another factor that influenced the screening outcome was a petition submitted by a group within the party known as the Osun APC Renewal Group.

The petition urged the committee to strictly enforce nomination rules and disqualify aspirants who failed to comply with the party’s guidelines.

After examining the complaint, the panel stated that the issues raised were credible and relevant to maintaining the integrity of the screening process. Consequently, the concerns were taken into account during the final evaluation of aspirants.

Calls for Unity Within Osun APC

Beyond the issue of disqualification, the committee also expressed concern about divisions within the Osun chapter of the APC.

To address these tensions, the panel recommended that the party’s national leadership establish a structured reconciliation process aimed at bringing together the various factions within the state chapter.

Among the suggestions put forward were the fair distribution of responsibilities such as campaign roles, party offices, and appointments across different regions and interest groups. The committee believes such measures could help restore trust and encourage broader participation within the party.

Commentary and Analysis

The disqualification of several high-profile aspirants may significantly reshape the political dynamics of the APC ahead of the Osun governorship primary. By narrowing the field to just two candidates, the party could potentially reduce internal competition but may also trigger dissatisfaction among supporters of the affected aspirants.

Political observers note that internal party conflicts often influence electoral outcomes, particularly when disgruntled factions feel excluded from the candidate selection process.

The committee’s recommendation for reconciliation therefore highlights the delicate balance the APC must maintain as it prepares for the next stage of the election cycle.

Ultimately, the success of the party’s strategy may depend on whether it can unify its members and avoid prolonged internal disputes before the governorship election campaign intensifies.