APC Disqualifies Omisore, Six Others; Clears Only Two for Osun Governorship Primary

The All Progressives Congress has ruled out former National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, and six other contenders from participating in the party’s governorship primary scheduled for December 13 in Osun State.

The decision followed the outcome of the party’s screening exercise, which revealed several irregularities in the nomination documents submitted by the affected aspirants.

However, only two aspirants were eventually cleared for the primary.

According to the report submitted to the APC National Working Committee in Abuja, the Screening Committee chaired by Chief Obinna Uzoh reached its conclusion after completing its assignment on December 4, 2025.

The panel explained that the seven disqualified aspirants failed to meet a key requirement in the APC Constitution and guidelines for governorship primaries.

Specifically, they were unable to provide evidence of sponsorship by “five fully registered and financially up-to-date party members from each Local Government Area in Osun State,” a condition clearly stated in Articles 9.3(i), 31.2(ii), and Paragraph 6(c) of the party’s guidelines.

Those affected include former Deputy Governor and former National Secretary, Senator Omisore, Babatunde Haketer Oralusi, Oyedotun Babayemi, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, Benedict Alabi, Adegoke Rasheed Okiki, and Senator Babajide Omoworare.

However, two aspirants—Mulikat Abiola Jimoh and Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji—successfully fulfilled all nomination conditions and are the only ones cleared to participate in the December 13 primary.

In the report, the committee said it adopted a rigorous process by vetting all documents, examining every declaration made by the aspirants, and carrying out interviews to determine their preparedness and their understanding of party rules.

Part of the report stated:
“Examination of documents and materials: All forms, declarations, supporting materials, and attachments submitted by aspirants were thoroughly reviewed to verify their authenticity and compliance with statutory and party requirements.
Each aspirant underwent a structured interview session during which the Committee assessed their knowledge of party rules, personal preparedness, adherence to nomination requirements, and overall suitability.”

The committee also confirmed receiving a petition from the Osun APC Renewal Group, which raised concerns about two aspirants allegedly violating nomination standards.

After reviewing the petition, the panel concluded that the issues raised were “weighty, substantial, and relevant to the integrity of the screening process.” It added that the party’s rules must be applied uniformly and not selectively.

While clearing the two qualified aspirants, the panel stressed that the APC in Osun State is still grappling with internal divisions. It advised the national leadership to initiate a strong reconciliation effort to reduce tensions within the party.

The committee noted:
“It is therefore recommended that the National Leadership immediately establish a robust reconciliation mechanism to unify all factions and groups. A harmonised party is essential for a credible primary and success at the gubernatorial election.”

It also urged the party to spread political appointments, campaign roles, and party responsibilities across different geopolitical blocs in the state to reduce long-standing feelings of exclusion.

The report concluded with appreciation to the APC National Working Committee for entrusting the committee with the assignment, reaffirming its “unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness and credibility that define our Party.”

Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed August 8, 2026, for the Osun governorship election.