By Godwin Oritse
The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2026 off-cycle election in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, has accused opposition elements of impersonating the party by branding vehicles in APC campaign colours to perpetrate criminal acts and tarnish his image.
Oyebamiji made the allegation on Friday while addressing journalists after observing the Jumat prayer with Muslim faithful at the Mallam Tope Central Mosque in Osogbo.
The APC governorship hopeful said reports suggesting that vehicles branded with his campaign materials were being used for criminal activities were the handiwork of desperate political opponents bent on discrediting him and undermining his growing support across the state.
He maintained that neither he nor his campaign organisation had any connection with criminality, stressing that he had always conducted his personal, professional and political affairs with integrity and respect for the rule of law.
“I have always lived as a law-abiding citizen and I will never depart from that path. Our campaign is founded on peace, decency and issue-based engagement, and we will continue to pursue our democratic aspirations without intimidation or resorting to unlawful acts,” he said.
Addressing the alleged impersonation, Oyebamiji said: “I also used the opportunity to address the disturbing reports of mischief by desperate elements who are branding vehicles with my campaign materials to perpetrate criminal acts and tarnish my name.
“I urge security agencies and the good people of Osun to remain vigilant and not fall for the antics of those whose only strategy is deception and fear. Our campaign is founded on peace, decency and issue-based engagement, and we will not be distracted by attempts to malign our reputation.”
He called on residents of the state to disregard any attempt to link his campaign to criminal activities, insisting that his ambition is driven by a desire to provide purposeful leadership and responsible governance for Osun.
Earlier during the Jumat service, Oyebamiji thanked Almighty Allah for His mercy and sought divine guidance for Osun State. He also expressed appreciation to the Muslim congregation for their warm reception and prayers in support of his aspiration.
The governorship aspirant appealed for continued prayers and support from the people, assuring them of his commitment to restoring purposeful leadership, fostering unity and delivering good governance that would benefit all residents of the state.
“With the support and prayers of our people, and by the grace of God, we will build an Osun where peace, security, prosperity and justice prevail for everyone,” he added.
