Rolling up my sleeves for this article, I don’t even know where to start because I wonder how I can make a 60 years old virgin to understand love. But to clear my conscience as they say ‘the courage to battle conscience is a price for integrity, and the farmer that waits for perfect weather is likely not to sow any seed.’ So let’s go and reason with this piece.
As the political drumbeats towards the 2026 governorship election begin to echo across Osun State, the political atmosphere is already charged with speculation, strategic alignments, and grassroots mobilization. Amid the noise, one name resonates powerfully and continues to stand out across the towns, and grassroots circles, not just for his experience and competence, but for his deep-rooted connection with the people of the state and that name is: Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, often acronyms as AMBO. A man who has distinguished himself not only as a seasoned technocrat but also as a symbol of hope and progress for Osun State. AMBO, no doubt, is the best bet for the APC to reclaim the governorship seat in Osun State.
Born in Ikire, a town in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun West Senatorial district. Oyebamiji has become more than a native son. He is widely regarded as a pride of the land. A man whose public service, political discipline, and economic acumen have earned him respect across political and civic circles.
AMBO’s reputation as a technocrat was cemented during his time in the private sector, where he held strategic positions in notable Nigerian banks. His understanding of finance, enterprise development, and public-private partnerships gives him a unique edge in crafting economic policies that can boost Osun’s IGR, create jobs, and stimulate rural development.
As the Managing Director of Osun State Investment Company Limited, he successfully turned the company around, increasing its capital base exponentially from N300m to N6bn in a spate of five years.
As Commissioner for Finance in Osun State under two successive administrations, Oyebamiji managed the state’s finances with uncommon prudence during some of its most challenging periods.The state’s IGR leaped from N10bn in 2017 to N29.5bn in 2022.
Equally as commissioner of finance, he ensured the full salary payment was restored shortly after he was appointed and for the period he was Commissioner under Gov. Oyetola, full payment was paid to workers. This is a clarification for the cynics who have been struggling to revision the events of our recent political history to vitiate the excellent credentials of Asiwaju of Ikire Kingdom.
According to Dr. Rasheed Adeola, a political economist at Obafemi Awolowo University, “Oyebamiji’s financial stewardship is a model in fiscal responsibility. He understands how to balance the books while still pursuing developmental goals.”
Beyond his resume, AMBO has proven himself to be a man of unity. Despite being a devout Muslim, he contributes generously to the other religions. This act of religious harmony has earned him widespread admiration. Professor Funmilayo Adeyemi, a scholar of interfaith relations, said: “In a deeply plural society like Osun, we need leaders who unify rather than divide. Bola Oyebamiji is one of such rare figures.”
Perhaps more than any other aspirant, AMBO enjoys genuine popularity across the three senatorial districts of Osun State, especially because of his generosity, friendliness and humility. His philanthropic efforts, and accessibility make him a household name and a beloved figure, particularly among the youth and the elderly. His political structure is solid, organic, and loyal to the party and its leadership.
With the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking to reclaim political ground in Osun State, people believe that AMBO represents the party’s best chance at winning in 2026. His credibility, grassroots appeal, and administrative experience provide a strong foundation to not only secure the party’s ticket but to mount a formidable campaign across the state and win the election.
✍️ Prince Abdullahi Alagbe TADESE (Wisdom Prince)
Writes from Ile Ẹlẹrẹ Isalẹ-Ọba Ward 2, Iwo.
alagbeabdullahitadese@gmail.com
