December 14, 2025 — Dalena Reporters
The political contest for the 2026 governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti States has intensified into a three-way clash involving Nigeria’s major political parties — the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC) — each positioning itself to capture strategic southwestern states ahead of nationwide polls.
In an era of heightened political competition, the race for Osun and Ekiti has become emblematic of the broader struggle for political influence in Nigeria. While the APC and PDP have historically dominated the electoral landscape, the ADC asserts that shifting voter sentiments could open space for surprising outcomes in both states.
Speaking to the press, PDP National Chairman Tanimu Turaki reaffirmed his party’s confidence that Osun and Ekiti remain PDP strongholds, underscoring the party’s belief that discontent with the ruling APC will translate into victories in both contests. According to Turaki, “Osun State and Ekiti State residents, as well as Nigerians at large, are weary of the APC and desire PDP leadership at both state and federal levels,” he said, predicting success for PDP candidates in free and credible elections.
Contrasting sharply with Turaki’s optimism, ADC National Youth Leader Balarabe Rufai declared his party poised for strong showings in both states — fueled in part by grassroots organization and the presence of influential party leaders. Rufai highlighted that the ADC’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, hails from Osun, asserting that the party’s local connections and growing support base afford it an advantage that should not be underestimated. “We are very strong in Osun and Ekiti,” he said, adding that voters’ frustration with national economic policies, rising cost of living, and perceived unfulfilled promises by the APC could work in the ADC’s favour.
Responding to both opposition claims, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim insisted neither the PDP nor the ADC possesses the political machinery to secure victory in 2026. He contended that the APC’s record under President Bola Tinubu — particularly achievements attributed to federal governance — positions the party to win Osun and retain Ekiti. Ibrahim described the APC as better placed to deliver stability and growth, reaffirming party confidence in success at the polls.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the Ekiti governorship election for June 20, 2026, and the Osun governorship election for August 8, 2026, setting a firm timeline for intensified campaigning and political maneuvering across the states.
Political analysts note that the ADC’s rising profile in these contests reflects broader national trends of voter dissatisfaction with established parties, echoing dynamics seen in past elections where third-force parties made notable inroads. While the PDP remains a formidable opposition and the APC retains significant federal and state structures, the ADC’s ambition illustrates increasing fragmentation and competitive flux in Nigeria’s multi-party system.
The coming months are expected to see more strategic alliances, defections, and campaign offensives, particularly as candidates are formally nominated and parties elaborate their manifestos. The outcomes in Osun and Ekiti will not only shape local governance but are widely interpreted as bellwethers ahead of the 2027 general elections — where national political fortunes hang in the balance.