Osun 2026: Groups insist APC guber ticket must be zoned to Osun West

By Folarunsho Alagbede

The Coalition of Osun APC Interest Groups, (COAIG) has said its stance on zoning the APC governorship ticket to Osun West Senatorial District in the 2026 gubernatorial election remains resolute.

It was gathered that the group’s stance is against that of the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, who called for the party ticket to be thrown open to any zone.

Claiming that the call is for selfish interests, the group said it is advocating that the APC governorship ticket be zoned to the Osun West Senatorial District to avert the reoccurrence of what happened in the last governorship election.

In a statement signed by its Director of Public Engagement and Operations, Samuel Iwolode, and made available to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, the group expressed disappointment on the wrong interpretation given to its agitation by some persons for their selfish interests.

The APC group said the call and advocacy that the governorship candidate emerge from the Osun West Senatorial District in the 2026 elections, is for the interest of the party.

According to the statement, “COAIG asserted that its call for zoning is rooted in equity and fairness, noting that since 1999, no candidate from Osun West has emerged as the APC gubernatorial flag bearer.”

The group highlighted the district’s unwavering support for the party despite being sidelined, which it claimed undermines unity and inclusivity within the APC.

“Zoning reflects the party’s commitment to equitable distribution of leadership roles, fostering unity and inclusiveness. It is only fair and logical that this mechanism is applied consistently across all political contests, including the gubernatorial primaries.

“Our call for leadership from Osun West is not an attempt to divide but to strengthen the party under the banner of fairness and equal opportunity. A candidate from the district would symbolise inclusiveness and unity.”