…as Muslim community holds ‘victory prayer’
By Sunday Oguntuyi, Osogbo
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the August 15, 2026 election in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has assured residents of a peaceful electoral process, declaring that there will be no room for violence, bloodshed or voter intimidation.
Oyebamiji gave the assurance on Sunday during a “victory prayer” organised by the Irewole Muslim Community in Ikire.
The APC flagbearer also expressed confidence of emerging victorious in the forthcoming poll, stating that his ambition is divinely ordained and promising not to disappoint the people of the state.
“I want to assure you that you should not be perturbed. There will be no violence or chaos before, during or after the election. There will be no bloodshed, and no one will be harassed,” he said.
“During the election, there will be adequate security to ensure a free and fair process for all residents of the state.”
He further pledged that his administration, if elected, would prioritise key sectors including security, education, healthcare, workers’ welfare, youth empowerment and job creation.
“To civil servants, all your benefits will be paid. I will also approve training and other entitlements. The APC is not frivolous, and you will enjoy good governance under our administration,” Oyebamiji added.
Reflecting on his past role as Managing Director of Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), he said he increased workers’ salaries four times within a year and facilitated investments in sectors such as oil and gas, as well as housing.
In his sermon, Islamic cleric Sheikh Abdulbasit Katibi-Bello commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for supporting Oyebamiji’s candidacy, noting that the move honoured a request made by the late Akire of Ikire.
The cleric prayed for Oyebamiji’s victory, describing him as a leader who has demonstrated inclusiveness and commitment to community development.
“Before his emergence as APC candidate, he had been doing well for the people without discrimination. I urge everyone to support him for a brighter Osun State,” he said.
The Chairman of the Irewole Muslim Community, Ademola Lasisi, also called on youths to mobilise support for the APC candidate, stressing the need for widespread participation beyond the local government area.
“I urge our youths to go all out and mobilise votes. It is not only the votes from this local government that will secure victory; we must extend our efforts to other councils,” he said.
Also speaking, a community leader, Olayinka Edu, disclosed that the group had been organising similar prayer sessions since 1988 for indigenes of Ikire aspiring to political offices.
He maintained that the community was not partisan but supports its members seeking public office, expressing confidence that their prayers for Oyebamiji’s success would be answered.
Edu also highlighted Oyebamiji’s philanthropic efforts, including the construction of mosques and churches, provision of scholarships, and healthcare outreach programmes across the state, describing him as a worthy candidate for the governorship.