By Abiola Olawale
The race for the 2026 Osun State governorship election has begun to gain momentum as Benedict Alabi, former Deputy Governor under the administration of the immediate past Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, has publicly announced his intention to contest the state’s top seat.
Alabi, who made the declaration during a special service held at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in Ile-Ife, becomes one of the earliest official entries into what promises to be a fiercely contested political season.
Alabi, hailing from Irewole Local Government in Osun West Senatorial District, cited divine guidance as the driving force behind his decision.
“I have sought guidance from God, and having received direction, I am informing the good people of Osun that I will run in the 2026 governorship election,” he stated
The former deputy governor’s bid sets the stage for a potential showdown with incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), should he seek re-election.
Also, Alabi’s candidacy may face challenges within the All Progressives Congress (APC), as speculations swirl about whether Oyetola, now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, will also vie for the party’s ticket.
His announcement also comes amid growing calls within the APC for the governorship ticket to be zoned to Osun West, a region many party members argue deserves representation.
