Rauf Aregbesola, the former Governor of Osun State, has expressed confidence that his political group, Omoluabi Progressives, will take over the reins of power in the state after the 2026 governorship election.
Aregbesola emphasized that his group’s desire to win the forthcoming poll is non-negotiable, and he’s certain that any candidate they present will emerge victorious.
At a stakeholders’ meeting in Ilesa, Aregbesola reaffirmed his group’s vision to entrench good governance in the state, saying their goal remains intact.¹ Members of the group were seen expressing confidence in ruling the state as of next year, with plans to gather in Abere, the Osun State Government House, to rejoice over their expected electoral victory.
However, the relationship between Aregbesola and President Bola Tinubu has taken a turn for the worse. Prof. Olusola Adeyeye described the frosty relationship as one of the seven wonders of the world, citing their close history. Adeyeye noted that Aregbesola was Commissioner for Works when Tinubu was the Governor of Lagos State, and later became a two-term governor of Osun State with Tinubu’s massive support.
Adeyeye stated, “Aregbesola was Commissioner for Works when Tinubu was the Governor of Lagos State. Thereafter, Aregbesola, with a very massive support from Tinubu, morally and financially, became a two-term governor of Osun State, and after that, Minister for Interior under the APC Government of President Muhammadu Buhari. But the very close friends have since fallen apart to the surprise and shock of those who knew how deep their love for each other was.”
He attributed the broken relationship to a political tussle, saying, “The sad situation must have been as a result of a political tussle.”