By Erewunmi Peace

As political parties gear up for the 2026 Osun State governorship election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have intensified preparations for their primaries, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears to be trailing behind with no clear timetable yet released.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier released its official schedule, setting July 18, 2026 for the Osun governorship election and urging parties to complete their primaries between October 2025 and January 2026.

In response, the APC has rolled out its internal timetable, fixing its governorship primary for December 13, 2025, while expression-of-interest and nomination forms are to be sold at ₦50 million. Party officials in Osogbo confirmed that consultations and zoning discussions are ongoing, as aspirants begin to declare interest.

Similarly, sources within the ADC revealed that the party has begun grassroots mobilisation and is finalising its screening modalities ahead of a primary expected before year-end.

However, the PDP, which currently controls the state government under Governor Ademola Adeleke, is yet to release its official primary timetable. Party insiders blame the delay on internal consultations and the need to resolve leadership disagreements before unveiling a schedule.

Political analysts say the early start by opposition parties could give them an organisational advantage, especially if the PDP’s internal coordination continues to stall.

“The APC seems determined to regain Osun, while the PDP is still weighing its internal strategies. Timing could play a big role in shaping next year’s race,” said a political observer in Osogbo.

With the 2026 election countdown already underway, Osun’s political atmosphere is gradually heating up as parties move to position themselves for what promises to be another fiercely contested poll.