Ataoja of Osogbo Endorses Aregbesola, ADC Ahead of 2026 Governorship Race

 

Ataoja of Osogbo Endorses Aregbesola, ADC Ahead of 2026 Governorship Race

Political dynamics in Osun State have taken a dramatic turn following the public endorsement of former governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by the Ataoja of Osogbo, His Royal Majesty Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Laroye II.

The monarch made the declaration during a courtesy visit to his palace in Osogbo, as Aregbesola and the ADC team concluded their constituency tours across the state. The endorsement is already causing unease within opposition camps ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

Oba Oyetunji, the 21st Ataoja and paramount ruler of Osogbo, expressed unwavering support for Aregbesola, describing the former governor’s political return as one anchored on renewed commitment to the welfare of the people.

He stated, “Your coming to Osogbo today is symbolic. I had not heard that you adopted a new party until now. Your open declaration, along with the people who followed you, means the whole of Osogbo will stand behind you. No one will see me without seeing Aregbe, and whenever you see Aregbe, you will certainly see me.”

The monarch recounted Aregbesola’s past leadership qualities and loyalty, noting that he once rebuffed pressures to depose him during political unrest. “We are not ingrates in Osogbo. Osogbo is always united when it comes to politics. I am for Aregbesola. I will never leave him. Wherever he goes, we shall follow,” he added.

Multiple political observers say the Ataoja’s endorsement has unsettled rival parties, given the monarch’s influence within Osogbo and the wider Council of Kings in Osun State.

A source who asked not to be named said the endorsement is a major political signal. “For a First Class Oba like the Ataoja of Osogbo to openly support any party or individual outside the ruling party means a lot. He was unapologetic about it. That speaks volumes. The opposition is afraid to speak out because they have seen the handwriting on the wall.”

According to the source, Osun political actors now anticipate heightened momentum around ADC’s campaign, as residents seek an administration focused on social welfare and human capital development.