Former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola has publicly clarified his political decision to endorse Bola Oyebamiji, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), over the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Oyinlola affirmed that he has no regrets regarding his political stance, attributing his position to internal party disruptions, uncoordinated political defections, and concerns over balanced governance across the state.
Core reasons for withdrawing support from Adeleke
- PDP crisis and unilateral defection
Oyinlola explained that as internal instability mounted within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the national level, stakeholders anticipated a trickling effect on state structures. While discussions were initiated to explore viable alternatives for party candidates, Governor Adeleke unexpectedly announced his resignation from the PDP and ported to the Accord Party via social media without completing planned consultations with key party stakeholders.
- Imbalance in infrastructure allocation
Focusing on policy thrusts, Oyinlola highlighted that Osun State was built on the premise of equitable development across all senatorial zones. He argued that the current administration failed to maintain this balance, stating:
“Out of the N362 billion spent altogether across major project sites, N260.5 billion was spent in Ede alone. When you skew development in preference to your own local area, it does not augur well for statewide equity.”
- Clarification on former governor entitlements
Addressing claims by Governor Adeleke regarding the provision of an official vehicle, Oyinlola dismissed assertions that it was a personal gift or act of benevolence.
He explained that statutory benefits for former governors—including vehicle replacements every four years, security personnel, and domestic staff—are explicitly established by laws enacted by the Osun State House of Assembly.
- Decline of party administration in Osogbo
Oyinlola observed a structural decline in party organisation, noting that routine engagements and meetings at the PDP headquarters in Osogbo had essentially ceased.
He cited the relocation of party decision-making to Ede as a key factor that weakened collective engagement and stakeholder involvement.
A strategic political philosophy
Reflecting on his 30-year military background, Oyinlola emphasised that his decisions are derived from systematic evaluation rather than spontaneous reactions.
He recalled previously supporting former Governor Rauf Aregbesola following earlier political disputes with the PDP, reiterating that his backing of Oyebamiji is fully aligned with his commitment to progressive and balanced governance.
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