The political landscape of Osun State shifted dramatically on Saturday, 14th February, 2026 as prominent National Assembly members elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), amid a grand reception that doubled as a public endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027.
While speaking at the event in Oshogbo, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and leader of the APC in Osun State, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, described the development as a “defining moment” for the state and a clear sign that the path to prosperity lies with the ruling party.
According to Oyetola, the defections represent courage and foresight by leaders determined to prioritise development over politics.
Those received into the APC include Senator Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun West), Honourable Omirin Olusanya (Ijesha South Federal Constituency), Honourable Wole Oke (Ijesha North Federal Constituency), and Honourable Taofeek Ajilesoro (Ife Central Federal Constituency).
Oyetola said their decision strengthens the party’s resolve to reclaim Osun State in the forthcoming 2026 governorship election.
“In the APC there are no strangers we are one united family. Your arrival strengthens our determination to restore dignity and purposeful leadership in Osun,” he stated.
The former Osun state governor used the occasion to highlight achievements of the Tinubu administration, noting improvements in foreign exchange stability, reduction in fuel importation due to local refining capacity, an over $50 billion in investment commitments.
He also cited the new ₦70,000 national minimum wage, student loan access for over 200,000 students, empowerment of nano businesses, increased allocations to states, and ongoing infrastructure projects including the Ibadan–Oshogbo road.
The Minister added that Osun indigenes now hold strategic federal appointments, giving the state a stronger voice at the national level.
“These are measurable achievements. The Renewed Hope Agenda is laying the foundation for Nigeria’s rebirth,” he said, while formally endorsing Tinubu for re-election in 2027.
Turning to state politics, Oyetola declared that the APC is mobilising grassroots structures to reclaim power in the August 8, 2026 governorship election.
He urged party members to return to their wards and communities to spread the message of unity and development.
“Together, we will reclaim Osun. Together, we will re-elect President Tinubu in 2027 and secure a brighter future for our children,” he concluded.
The event signals an early intensification of political realignments ahead of both the 2026 Osun governorship race and the 2027 general elections, with analysts predicting further defections in the coming months.
