OSUN 2026: COME, LET US REASON TOGETHER

BY SARAFA IBRAHIM:
This past Saturday, I attended a social gathering where an impassioned discussion emerged about the upcoming Osun State governorship election in 2026. While the election is still over fifteen months away, interest is already building as opposition candidates take to social media to share their ambitions.

Consequently, it is natural for people to engage in discussions regarding the qualifications of various candidates. During the debate, one participant posed a thought-provoking rhetorical question: "What will the Osun APC use to attract voters?" This seemingly straightforward inquiry was met with an uncomfortable silence, revealing deeper concerns about the Osun APC that resonate among the public. To grasp the significance of this question, we must reflect on the twelve years the APC governed Osun State, a period marked by significant challenges and turmoil. When the APC exited power in 2022, the state was left teetering on the brink of financial disaster, burdened by unprecedented debt levels. The consequences of their mismanagement were profound, casting a long shadow over the state's future and inflicting unnecessary hardship on its residents. It is evident that the Osun APC contributed more to the state's problems than to its solutions. Throughout their twelve-year tenure, the APC's governance resulted in widespread suffering, with little regard for the genuine concerns of the populace. Take, for instance, the plight of pensioners in November 2022, when the APC left office. The pension liabilities had soared to approximately N75 billion, yet there was no serious effort to address this issue. These individuals dedicated their lives to public service, but the APC administration failed to honor their contributions, leading to distressing outcomes, including early deaths among pensioners due to neglect. In hindsight, it is apparent that the Osun APC intentionally crafted a scenario that subjected pensioners to unbearable hardship. In stark contrast, Governor Adeleke has demonstrated a commitment to rectifying past injustices. In less than three years, he has made substantial progress in addressing inherited pension liabilities and introduced a free health coverage program for senior citizens, providing them with care without charge. This initiative serves as a recognition of their sacrifices and a reassurance that the state, which they served, will not abandon them in their later years. The situation for active workers mirrors the struggles of pensioners. It is unnecessary to question whether Osun workers are better off under the Adeleke administration compared to their time under the APC; the improvement is undeniable. Since November 2022, workers' salaries have increased by over 150%, marking a significant step toward enhancing their living conditions. Additionally, Governor Adeleke is rectifying the unpaid half-salaries that the APC administration left unresolved. Despite being part of the previous government that accrued this debt, he recognizes the importance of honoring these commitments. Repaying these owed amounts not only rebuilds trust between workers and the government but also increases their disposable income, stimulating the local economy—a significant change that the workers undoubtedly appreciate.

In terms of infrastructure, the APC's record in Osun was severely deficient, with a deficit exceeding 70% by the time they exited. For twelve years, the APC perpetuated myths surrounding infrastructural development while neglecting the real needs of the state, all for shallow political purposes. Despite generating substantial revenue during their tenure, the condition of roads remained deplorable, a daily struggle for residents. Moreover, the substantial loans incurred by the APC, costing Osun over N2 billion per month in servicing, provide no justification for desiring a return to that troubled history. In contrast, under Governor Adeleke's leadership, Osun has implemented a comprehensive infrastructure plan within a mere three years. Many promises deemed unattainable by the APC are now becoming realities under Adeleke's administration. For example, the ongoing construction of the state's first overhead bridge in Ile-Ife and the nearing completion of the first dual carriageway in Ilesa stand as testaments to progress. Additionally, projects such as advanced stages of flyovers in Osogbo and a dual carriageway in Ede are ongoing, with Governor Adeleke achieving these advancements without incurring new debts. Similar improvements are occurring across various sectors. For instance, during the APC's twelve years, no fire-fighting vehicles were acquired for the state's fire service, severely hampering their emergency response capabilities. In less than three years, Governor Adeleke has procured seven fire-fighting trucks, strengthening the state's ability to combat fire emergencies. This trend of progress extends to agriculture as well, where the APC failed to procure any tractors to support farmers in the state over their lengthy tenure. In contrast, Governor Adeleke has acquired tractors that are now assisting farmers in their work, demonstrating a stark difference in governance and commitment to real impact.

The APC's legacy in Osun State reflects a governance record too poor to convince voters. Those seeking office under the party are acutely aware of this and are attempting to distance themselves from that dismal past, despite being integral to its failures. However, they will struggle, as the people of Osun are unlikely to be swayed back to a past they rejected not long ago. Fortunately, Governor Adeleke's achievements resonate with the aspirations of the populace, and his substantial progress outweighs any shortcomings. While addressing the APC's past failings was always going to be challenging, Adeleke is demonstrating that effective leadership can make a significant difference. The advancements made thus far signal that Osun is on a path toward sustainable development.

It is understandable why opposition figures, particularly those who nearly drove Osun State to the ground, are working to hinder this progress. However, they will face considerable challenges, as the people of Osun are keenly aware and politically conscious enough not to revisit the very pitfalls they fought so hard to escape a few years ago. **• Sarafa Ibrahim is a Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor and writes from Iwo, Osun State.**