A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has dismissed concerns that recent defections by some party members could weaken the party’s chances in the August 15 governorship election, insisting that the APC remains firmly positioned to reclaim power in the state.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye described the movement of politicians between parties as a familiar feature of Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly during election seasons.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in Osun, where parties have intensified grassroots campaigns ahead of the governorship contest expected to shape the state’s political direction for the next four years.
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According to Oyintiloye, the APC’s strength extends beyond individual politicians, noting that the party has built a resilient structure across wards, polling units, communities and local government areas throughout the state.
“The APC in Osun is bigger than any individual or group of individuals. Our party is built on a solid foundation that has endured for decades,” he said.
He added that claims suggesting the party had been weakened by the exit of some members do not reflect realities on the ground.
“The strength of our party resides in the people, and the people remain firmly with the APC.”
The former lawmaker also expressed confidence in the party’s governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, saying his emergence has energized party members and attracted support from various segments of the electorate.
According to him, Oyebamiji’s record in public service, accessibility and growing popularity have positioned him as a leading contender in the race.
“There is no community in Osun State today where the AMBO movement is not gaining momentum. The support he enjoys cuts across political affiliations, religious divides, age groups and professional backgrounds,” he said.
Political observers have closely monitored recent developments within the APC following reports of internal disagreements and defections in some quarters. However, party leaders have continued reconciliation efforts aimed at maintaining unity ahead of the election.
Oyintiloye acknowledged concerns raised by some aggrieved members and urged the party leadership to investigate complaints and address legitimate grievances to prevent additional defections.
He stressed that every member remains important to the party’s electoral ambitions and called for greater internal cohesion.
The APC stalwart noted that ongoing consultations, stakeholder engagements and grassroots mobilisation exercises have strengthened the party’s structure rather than weakened it.
“This is not the time for distractions or pessimism. It is the time for greater unity, deeper engagement with the people and stronger mobilisation across our communities,” he said.
Osun remains one of the most politically competitive states in the South-West, with the APC seeking to return to power after losing the governorship to the PDP in 2022.
As political campaigns gather momentum, analysts expect issues of governance, economic development, infrastructure and youth employment to dominate conversations among voters.
Oyintiloye maintained that the APC’s campaign strategy and grassroots reach would ultimately determine the outcome of the election rather than the departure of a handful of members.
“Our structures are intact, our supporters are energised, and our candidate enjoys overwhelming acceptance. We are confident, we are prepared, and we are fully positioned for victory,” he said.
The APC leader also urged party faithful across the state to remain steadfast, expressing optimism that the party would emerge victorious when Osun voters head to the polls on August 15.
