Senator Iyiola Omisore, former APC National Secretary, has reversed his earlier stance and endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s push for a consensus candidate ahead of the All Progressives Congress primary for the 2026 Osun State governorship election. This development follows Omisore’s disqualification by the APC screening committee alongside six other aspirants for failing to meet nomination requirements, including sponsorship by at least five registered party members per local government area.
Omisore shared his position during an appearance on TVC News’ Politics Tonight on Wednesday, emphasizing party loyalty to the president’s directive. “The president has spoken, and as party members we have to work with the terms of the president,” he stated, underscoring his commitment despite prior suggestions for alternative approaches. He described himself as “an old wine that tastes better” with a steadfast supporter base, vowing no regrets over past decisions and promising to brief his followers formally on the consensus arrangement. Omisore also called for the APC to refine its strategy to secure victory in the December 13 primary and the subsequent election.
President Tinubu convened a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa on Monday night, attended by most aspirants except Omisore, where they pledged support for a consensus flagbearer to avoid the internal crises that plagued the party in 2022. Senior party figures present included APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola. Tinubu expressed confidence in their ability to deliver victory, assuring national leadership backing for the chosen candidate.
In a joint statement post-meeting, the aspirants—including former Deputy Governor Benedict Olugboyega Alabi, Dotun Babayemi, Akin Ogunbiyi, Senator Babajide Omoworare, Kunle Adegoke (SAN), Babatunde Hareter Oralusi, Mulikat Abiola Jimoh, and Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji—unanimously agreed to abide by the consensus process. “That we unanimously agree to abide by the party’s decision to nominate a consensus candidate for affirmation at the APC Primary Election scheduled for Saturday, 13th December 2025,” the statement read, pledging full support, party unity, and avoidance of disruptive actions. Reports indicate several, including these seven, have stepped down to back Oyebamiji as the emerging consensus choice.
This alignment signals efforts to foster stability and good governance in Osun ahead of the 2026 poll, with disqualified aspirants like Omisore now embracing the process despite initial resistance, such as his earlier dismissal of the screening as a “joke.”
Omisore’s U-turn bridges a potential divide, reinforcing Tinubu’s influence within the APC structure. The party’s focus remains on presenting a united front against opposition challenges.
