AMBO and the Osun Governorship Race: Assessing the Man, the Politics and the Vision

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, a public affairs commentator, Oluseyi Olonade, has described the emergence of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, as a significant development in the state’s political landscape.

In an article titled “Oyebamiji: The Man, The Politics and The Aspiration,” Olonade argued that the All Progressives Congress governorship hopeful possesses the character, experience and vision needed to reposition Osun State for sustainable growth.

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s appeal stems from his extensive background in the banking sector, where he spent nearly three decades working with institutions including Wema Bank, Trans International Bank, Spring Bank and Enterprise Bank.

A native of Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area, Oyebamiji was described as a technocrat whose experience in corporate governance, finance and risk management has shaped his approach to public administration.

The article noted that his public service journey gained prominence in 2012 when he was appointed to oversee the then Osun State Investment Company Limited. Under his leadership, the organisation was reportedly restructured and transformed into Omoluabi Holdings Limited.

The writer further highlighted Oyebamiji’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance under successive APC administrations, where he was credited with managing the state’s finances during challenging economic periods.

Olonade also referenced Oyebamiji’s appointment as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, describing it as further evidence of his administrative and leadership capabilities.

The article contrasted Oyebamiji’s governance philosophy with that of the current administration in Osun State, arguing that the APC aspirant favours institutional reforms, economic diversification and fiscal discipline.

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s proposed agenda includes strengthening transparency in government spending, expanding internally generated revenue, attracting private-sector investments and promoting industrial and agricultural development.

The article also highlighted youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development and digital skills acquisition as key components of his vision for the state.

Olonade concluded that the forthcoming governorship election would present voters with a choice between different approaches to governance, expressing confidence that Oyebamiji’s experience and developmental agenda make him a strong contender in the race.

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship*

A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State.

According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens.

“Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read.

Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process.

The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State.

“We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added.

The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members.

While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election.

Signed:

Alh. Adebayo Oyewole,

Secretary.

Atiku Set To Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket, Leads Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen In 34 States

Former Vice President of Nigeria and frontline presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, is projected to emerge winner of the party’s presidential primaries, according to impeccable sources in Abuja.

The primaries, conducted across over 8,000 wards in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, reportedly placed Atiku far ahead of his closest rivals — former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

Highly placed party insiders disclosed that Atiku is currently leading in 34 states, including the FCT, after securing dominance across the 19 Northern states, the five South-East states, and the six South-West states, while also maintaining a strong showing in at least three states in the South-South geopolitical zone.

The sources added that the outcome reflects what they described as “an overwhelming nationwide acceptance” of the former vice president within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Meanwhile, the ADC leadership has invited members of the press to the official announcement of the final collated results scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in Abuja.

The declaration of results is expected to be broadcast live on ARISE Television and two other major television stations, while also being livestreamed on the party’s official social media platforms on X and Facebook.

Speaking ahead of the announcement, the founding National Chairman of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, said the decision to televise the exercise live was aimed at promoting transparency and democratic accountability.

“We want millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to witness democracy in action,” Nwosu said.

He further revealed that the party leadership would encourage all three presidential aspirants to publicly embrace a peace accord and commit themselves to working together in unity for the party’s success.

According to him, the move is necessary to strengthen internal cohesion and position the ADC for victory in the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Details later.