Osun 2026: Groups insist Christians should produce the next governor
Three Christian organizations in Osun State have called for a Christian to become the next governor in the 2026 governorship election, citing fairness, equity, and balance in the state’s political leadership.
The demand was made in a joint statement signed by Bishop Seun Adeoye, Lead Bishop of the Worldwide Anglican Church in Nigeria; Bishop Mike Adebomi, Osun State Coordinator of the World Bishops Council (Africa Chapter); and Rev. Theophilus Ayodeji, National Leader of the Gospel Pushers Association (GPA).
According to the groups, a review of Osun State’s political history since 1999 shows that four out of the five governors have been Muslims, while only one, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, was a Christian. The statement listed the past leaders as Chief Bisi Akande (1999–2003), Oyinlola (2003–2010), Rauf Aregbesola (2010–2018), Gboyega Oyetola (2018–2022), and the incumbent, Senator Ademola Adeleke (2022–date).
They noted that by the time Governor Adeleke completes his tenure in November 2026, Muslims would have governed the state for 20 of the 26 years since the return to democracy, while Christians would have led for only seven years.
“For equity and fair play, it is only just that a Christian should produce the next governor of Osun State,” the statement read. “Christians have always supported all administrations regardless of religion and contributed to the development of the state.”
The groups urged political parties to present credible and competent Christian candidates for the August 8, 2026 election, promising to mobilize massive support for any party that aligns with their call.
They also appealed to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Osun State chapter, to convene a meeting with Christian aspirants across political parties to strategize on achieving this goal.
The statement added that the groups are open to collaborating with other individuals and organisations with similar objectives to ensure the emergence of a Christian governor in 2026.
