Babalola declares to run for Osun governorship under APC

Dr Peter Adebayo Babalola, former Chief of Staff to former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, on Monday declared his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on his ambition, he said his resolve to contest mirrored the pulse of Osun’s democratic evolution, shaped by conviction, service, and regional fairness.

He stressed that his manifesto is not just another political promise, but a people-centered blueprint designed to restore hope, equity, and prosperity across the state.

“With my vast experience in governance, I definitely have an edge over other aspirants. My manifesto is not just another political promise, it is a people-centered blueprint designed to restore hope, equity, and prosperity across the state,” he said.

On his five-point agenda, Babalola said: “I will return governance to the grassroots. Under my watch, councils will be empowered with autonomy, staff retrained, and rural projects prioritized, so that the  development can begin where people live, not just in Osogbo.

“Leveraging my background in education management, my plans are to revamp Osun’s public schools, establish modern vocational centres, provide rural scholarships, and create teacher-motivation programmes. I believe Osun’s children must compete globally, not just locally.

“From roads to power, water, and digital access, I envisioned a state where no community is left behind. My plan includes the Osun Rural Roads Network (ORRN), a phased approach to link farms, towns, and markets for easier movement of goods and services.

“With over 60 per cent of Osun’s population under 35, I see the youth not as a statistic but as the engine of transformation. My government will launch the Osun Action Youth Scheme (OAYS) a multi-sector empowerment initiative spanning agriculture, digital innovation, creative industries, and small enterprise funding.”

“For decades, Osun West has waited for its fair turn. I intend to institutionalise regional balance in appointments, projects, and budgets. My leadership will reflect every zone; West, Central, and East, because unity is built on fairness, not favouritism.

“Osun stands today at a decisive point. Between politics as usual and politics of purpose. Between recycled promises and refreshing possibilities. I, Dr. Peter Adebayo Babalola, embody a generation’s dream for a leader who listens, who understands governance, and who has the courage to correct old wrongs,” he concluded.