As political parties gear up for activities leading up to the 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State, another group within the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state has thrown its weight behind agitations for Osun West agenda.

Speaking in support of the Osun West political agenda, Coalition of Osun APC Interests Groups, COAIG, in a statement on Sunday said the agitations underscores the principle of equal opportunity and the fair distribution of leadership roles, which is foundational to the spirit of democracy.

In the statement signed by Iwolode Samuel, COAIG Director of Public Engagement and Operation, the group held that the call for zoning the APC gubernatorial ticket to Osun West is not just a matter of local pride but also rooted in the commitment to justice and equitable development for all parts of the state.

Iwolode while insisting that it chose to focus on district-level representation hinted that it understand that leadership is not solely defined by an individual but by the collective potential of a region to contribute to the progress and prosperity of the state.

He noted that a leader emerging from Osun West could bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of this significant part of our state, aligning district-wide developmental goals with our broader state objectives

The statement read in part that, “At the heart of our agitations lies the principle of equal opportunity and the fair distribution of leadership roles, which is foundational to the spirit of democracy. Osun West Senatorial District has historically been underrepresented in the governorship of the state. Our call for zoning the APC gubernatorial ticket to Osun West is not just a matter of local pride but also rooted in the commitment to justice and equitable development for all parts of the state.

“We choose to focus on district-level representation because we understand that leadership is not solely defined by an individual but by the collective potential of a region to contribute to the progress and prosperity of the state. A leader emerging from Osun West could bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of this significant part of our state, aligning district-wide developmental goals with our broader state objectives.

“It is important to point out that our drive for improved district representation does not negate the capabilities or competencies of candidates from other districts, such as Osun Central. On the contrary, we appreciate the contributions they have historically made to the state. Our campaign aims to diversify leadership and foster inclusive governance that captures the unique strengths of each district, thereby creating a balanced and more unified Osun.”

Iwolode also hinted that zoning to Osun West is a bold step towards correcting historical imbalances and ensuring that democracy works for everyone, not just a select few.

He said, “It is about building a path to development that recognizes and integrates the diverse backgrounds, insights, and potentials within our great state. For too long, the aspirations of the people in Osun West have not been fully realized in the leadership narrative of progressive governance.

“By focusing on a district rather than a singular candidate, we open the door for numerous qualified individuals from Osun West to come forward, each with unique strengths and visions for the future. This approach promotes healthy competition and ensures that the best candidate emerges through internal democracy, chosen not for their geographical convenience but for their capability to lead and transform the state positively.”

He, however, said his group was open for dialogue, continued discussions and committed towards a state where governance structure reflects true representation.

Osun 2026: APC group throws weight behind agitations for Osun West agenda