The optics have sparked unease among APC supporters in Osun, with many fearing a behind-the-scenes alliance
Tension in Osun APC as AMBO Supporters Allegedly Insult Tinubu Over Adeleke Visit
“It’s a lie,” AMBO Camp Denies Allegation
What began as whispers in political circles has quickly spiraled into an all-out war of words within the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as loyalists of two governorship aspirants; Dr. Ajibola Bashiru (SRJ) and Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), clashed over growing suspicion surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent engagements with the Adeleke family.
At the heart of the controversy is a series of visits by members of the Adeleke political dynasty; led by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun and his nephew, award-winning singer Davido, to President Tinubu’s Lagos residence.
While no official explanation has been provided, the optics have sparked unease among APC supporters in Osun, with many fearing a behind-the-scenes alliance may be in the works ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.
Tensions peaked when some supporters of the AMBO camp were accused of insulting President Tinubu over the alleged plan to sell the party’s ticket to the Adeleke family.
On the flip side, SRJ’s supporters were themselves accused of being loyalists of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, allegedly working to destabilize the party from within.
In a sharp response, Dr. Ajibola Bashiru came out swinging during an address to his supporters.
Responding to insinuations from the Oyebamiji camp that he was still closely aligned with Aregbesola, Bashiru acknowledged their past alliance; but swiftly redirected the spotlight.
“Let’s not pretend,” he said pointedly.
“Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola played a central role in restoring progressive governance in Osun. I was one of the lead counsels in that journey. But if we’re talking loyalty, then let’s talk facts; Bola Oyebamiji is still taking instructions from Aregbesola.”
Bashiru argued that Oyebamiji’s long-standing service under Aregbesola, including as Chairman of Osicol and Commissioner for Finance, undercuts any claim of political independence from the former governor.
“They’re trying to label me a stooge to Aregbesola just to curry favor with Oyetola’s allies, yet they remain deeply tied to him,” he said. “It’s nothing but hypocrisy.”
Not letting the attack go unchallenged, the AMBO Media Front, led by Adebayo Adedeji, fired back in a blistering statement, rejecting claims that their supporters had insulted the President over the Adeleke visits.
“We wish to categorically state that no supporter of the AMBO project has insulted or disrespected President Tinubu,” the statement read.
“The claim is a fabrication; mischievous and intended to tarnish our principal’s image.”
They reaffirmed Oyebamiji’s loyalty to the APC and the Tinubu-led administration, highlighting his work as MD/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and his strong alignment with the “Renewed Hope” agenda, particularly in advancing the marine and blue economy sectors.
“Since the news of the Adeleke visit broke, no member of our team; online or offline, has said anything remotely disrespectful about the President or any party leader,” Adedeji noted.
“We are focused on issues, not distractions.”
But observers say the public spat is exposing deeper rifts within Osun APC.
With the party still smarting from its loss in the 2022 gubernatorial election, insiders worry that internal strife could derail efforts to mount a credible challenge in 2026.
Even more worrying for party strategists is the growing perception; right or wrong, that President Tinubu may be warming up to the Adeleke dynasty. Whether symbolic or strategic, such a move is stirring unease in APC ranks.
Some party members argue that the fears are not entirely misplaced, pointing to what they describe as the Adelekes’ “history of political disloyalty”; often switching party allegiance as long as it aligns with their ambitions.
As it stands, the APC in Osun appears to be walking a political tightrope: one misstep, and the party risks entering the 2026 race more divided than ever. Read More
