A committed member of the All Progressives Congress in Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State has shown his interest (not as a candidate) and offered his advice to the party ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election in the southwest state.
Ibrahim Olayemi Folorunsho has said that he saw greatness in the party and its fortune in the next race, but “I opened my eyes, I realized the wise stakeholders had not yet made their final decision.”
He emphasized that the political party, which was in power from 2018 to 2022 must not make the same mistakes it made in the last election which the Peoples Democratic Party cashed in on. He explained, “Personal relationships should be set aside—our focus must be the progress and development of the party, for the betterment of the people.”
Folorunsho, the convener of the Folorunsho Ibrahim Olayemi (FIO) foundation, highlighted the main factors to be considered ahead of the next political dispensation. According to him, grassroot connection of the aspirant to the people, generosity and impact to the people’s lives and widespread acceptability and popularity must be the yardsticks to use to pick the candidate.
The popular member of the APC added that the political party must totally avoid imposition of candidate, which is inimical to the chances of a party.
He cited an instance saying that an ex Governor Rauf Aregbesola attempted to impose Engineer Oriolowo as his successor.
Ibrahim Olayemi Folorunsho narrated, “When Aregbesola attempted to impose Engr. Oriolowo after his tenure, many of us knew he lacked the charisma and popularity to lead. President Tinubu rejected that move and instead supported Gboyega Oyetola—a widely accepted and influential figure. Through that wise decision, APC eventually took the seat of power.”
According to him, some aspirants are already campaigning without following the directives of the leaders and principles of the APC.
He concluded, “Let us be guided by wisdom, not self-interest. Choosing the right candidate will ease our path to victory. But choosing based on favoritism may return us to square one.”
Follow us on social media
