The Osun Renewal Drive has defended former Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, against criticism over the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) defeat in the 2026 governorship election.
The group said Oyetola should not be blamed for the party’s loss, describing him as a leader who demonstrated commitment and dedication throughout the electioneering process.
In a statement signed by its President, Tunde Oyetola (Gaaji), and Director of Media, Olalekan Oni, the group said the former governor led extensive mobilisation efforts across the state in an attempt to secure victory for the APC.
According to the group, the party, under Oyetola’s leadership, visited all 30 local government areas and the Ife East Area Office, engaging party members, traditional rulers, community leaders, stakeholders and voters.
“Oyetola led. He mobilised. He engaged. He reconciled. He gave the assignment his best,” the group said.
It argued that although the APC failed to achieve its desired electoral outcome, the result should not be used to discredit the efforts made by the former governor during the campaign.
The group likened the situation to football, saying electoral strategies and decisions were often judged differently depending on the outcome of a contest.
It said initiatives that would have been celebrated as successful strategies if the APC had won were now being criticised because the party lost the election.
The group also acknowledged that the APC needed to examine its performance, identify areas where it fell short and learn lessons ahead of future elections.
However, it cautioned against attributing the entire electoral defeat to one individual, stressing that leadership responsibility should be distinguished from condemnation.
“Leadership comes with responsibility, but responsibility should not automatically become blame,” it said.
The Osun Renewal Drive further described Oyetola’s mobilisation and reconciliation efforts as worthy of recognition, insisting that the APC’s defeat did not erase the work carried out during the campaign.
“The election may have been lost, but Oyetola’s commitment, leadership and effort deserve commendation; not condemnation,” the group added.
(The Sun)
