In a move that has shaken the APC to its core, National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru has pulled out of the 2026 Osun governorship race, instantly reshaping the political battlefield.

Basiru, long seen as a formidable contender and influential force within the APC, explained that the demands of his national role would prevent him from giving a governorship campaign the focus it deserves. His decision brings an end to lingering speculation and throws the race wide open for other ambitious party figures.

His withdrawal is sending shockwaves across Osun’s political arena. With him stepping aside, the focus now shifts to top APC contenders former governor Gboyega Oyetola, ex-finance commissioner Bola Oyebamiji, and political strategist Dotun Babayemi; who are expected to accelerate their consultations and campaign strategies in the coming months.

Basiru’s exit also adds a fresh twist to the ongoing zoning debate within the party, where disagreements over which senatorial district should produce the next governor have sparked internal tension.

As the countdown to 2026 intensifies, APC insiders say Basiru’s decision could either clear the path for a consensus candidate or ignite an even fiercer scramble for the party’s flag.