The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally published the definitive roster of candidates for the Osun State governorship election scheduled for 8 August. This crucial document, which adheres to the commission’s approved timetable, marks a significant milestone in the electoral process.
The final list was communicated via a letter dated 4 March from INEC Secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony to the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner. In line with the official schedule, 9 March was designated as the ultimate date for this publication. Musa Olurode, the INEC Public Relations Officer in Osun State, detailed the list in a Friday statement, confirming the clearance of candidates from 14 political parties.
The compilation includes the names of governorship candidates, their deputies, ages, academic qualifications, and party affiliations. A notable development from this list is the absence of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), both of which contested the previous election. The incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, who won the 2022 poll on the PDP platform but defected to Accord last year, is confirmed to contest under the Accord party with Kola Adewusu as his running mate.
Among the candidates, Mrs. Adeagbo Yemisi of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) stands out as the sole female governorship candidate. The list also features Bola Oyebamiji as the standard-bearer for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Other parties represented include the African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Alliance (AA), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), among others.
This publication by INEC finalizes the nomination phase, officially confirming the candidates whose paperwork has been accepted ahead of campaign commencement. The exclusion of the PDP, the party that secured the last governorship election, introduces a significant shift in the political landscape for the upcoming contest. For comprehensive analysis and further updates on this and other national issues, such as economic reports or security developments, readers are encouraged to follow our dedicated blog.
