The Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups has called for an indigene of Osogbo, the Osun State capital, to emerge as the next governor in the 2026 election, citing equity, population strength, and the city’s historical relevance as major reasons.
Speaking during a press conference held on Thursday, the coalition, which comprises several Osogbo based associations, urged political parties to zone their governorship tickets to the state capital, stressing that the city has been marginalized since the creation of Osun State 35 years ago.
Delivering the coalition’s address, Mr. Omosola Olabode Kamarudeen, spokesperson of the Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups, said the time had come for Osogbo to produce the governor, considering its contributions to the state’s political, economic, and cultural development.
He explained that Osogbo, which hosts the seat of government and the majority of the state’s population, deserves a fair chance at leadership.
“Osogbo has not produced a governor since the creation of Osun State, our call is based on fairness and inclusivity. We have competent, credible, and responsible indigenes who can lead the state to greater heights,” Kamarudeen stated.
The coalition noted that the city accounts for more than 65 percent of the state’s economic activities and remains the commercial hub of Osun. It also lamented the lack of federal presence in Osogbo, including the absence of a higher institution and ministerial representation, adding that a governor from the capital would better understand the developmental needs of the area and its people.
Speaking with newsmen after the conference, Comrade Jimoh Oyekola Ajayi emphasized unity among Osogbo indigenes, noting that the movement cuts across all political parties.
“The purpose of coming here is to prove that there’s no division in Osogbo, we have come together to support any candidate from Osogbo, regardless of political affiliation. Any party that fields an Osogbo indigene in the 2026 governorship election will have our full support,” Ajayi said.
Similarly, Abdur-Rahman Okunlade, a legal practitioner and member of the coalition, said the demand was long overdue, adding that Osogbo has capable hands ready to lead the state.
“As much as other zones deserve the opportunity, Osogbo people also deserve it, we have educated, enlightened, and intelligent individuals who can govern Osun State effectively. Nobody will fight for us if we don’t rise to fight for ourselves,” he said.
The coalition concluded by appealing to all political parties particularly the PDP, APC, and ADC, to present Osogbo indigenes as their governorship candidates, assuring them of massive support from residents during the 2026 election.
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