By Erewunmi Peace

A former media aide to ex-Governor Gboyega Oyetola, Ismail Omipidan, has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State remains strong, united, and intact three years after losing the governorship seat — a development he describes as “the first of its kind in the state’s political history.”

Speaking during a political discussion programme, Omipidan argued that political parties in Osun traditionally experience internal crisis or fragmentation after losing power. However, he claimed the APC has defied this trend despite its defeat in the 2022 governorship election, where Senator Ademola Adeleke of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) emerged winner.

According to Omipidan, the party has continued to reorganize, mobilize, and maintain its structures across the state in preparation for the 2026 governorship race. He maintained that the resilience of APC members is proof that the party still enjoys widespread acceptance among the electorate.

“In Osun, whenever a ruling party loses power, what follows is division and collapse. But three years after the 2022 election, APC remains intact and more coordinated. This is the first time we are seeing this kind of stability after a loss,” he said.

Political observers, however, note that Omipidan’s claim reflects a party-insider perspective rather than a verified historical record. Still, the APC has remained active in opposition, participating in local government elections, engaging in public debates, and strengthening its grassroots network.

As the 2026 governorship election approaches, both the APC and the ruling PDP continue to intensify their political activities, signaling what analysts predict will be a highly competitive contest.