Businessman and development expert, Hareter Babatunde Oralusi, on Thursday formally declared his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election in Osun State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The declaration, held in Ile-Ife, attracted party leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, youth groups, and members of the media.
Oralusi said his decision to join the race was driven by a desire to contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to build a productive, innovative, and people-focused Osun State.
“I stand before you with profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility to formally declare my intention to contest for the office of Governor of Osun State under our great party, the APC,Osun must not lag behind in the Renewed Hope vision. We must complement the President’s national reforms with state-level transformation that turns Osun into a productive and prosperous state,” Oralusi said.
He said the time had come for Osun to embrace a new direction that aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for national renewal.
Oralusi, who chairs the Nigerian Capital Development Fund (NCDF) and has extensive experience in public service and development finance, emphasized that his campaign would focus on innovation, transparency, youth empowerment, and grassroots development.
“For far too long, few individuals have treated our collective wealth as personal inheritance. That era must end.Osun belongs to all of us, and our resources must serve the people, not the privileged few,”he added.
He added that his administration would end what he described as “the era of entitlement and cabal politics” in the state, promising instead a government built on accountability and inclusive governance.
Oralusi also pledged to restore local government autonomy, describing local administrations as “the true engines of development.”
“My administration will prioritise job creation, technology-driven governance, healthcare reform, and a modern education system that prepares our youth for the challenges of tomorrow,” he stated.
He paid tribute to President Tinubu, describing him as a visionary leader who is changing not just policies but mindsets.
He also lauded the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for his “youthful and innovative leadership,” and expressed gratitude to APC elders and stakeholders for their guidance and commitment to the party’s stability in Osun.
Oralusi noted that the 2026 governorship election should be based on competence and capacity rather than political slogans.
“The 2026 governorship election will not be about political affiliation alone; it will be about credibility and the capacity to deliver. I am the most prepared most innovative, and most competent candidate for this job,” he said.
He concluded by calling on party members and citizens to support his vision for a new Osun founded on innovation, integrity, and inclusive growth.
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