The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Osun State has extended an invitation to the former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to join their party ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun. This comes after Aregbesola and his supporters recently announced their departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC). The reason for their exit stems from grievances over the treatment of party leaders, including their suspension, expulsion, and the continuous undermining of the group’s structure without fair hearing.
In a statement, Aregbesola revealed that the faction he leads is open to joining any political party that shares its progressive ideology, with the ultimate goal of making Osun the most progressive state in Nigeria.
NNPP’s Offer to Aregbesola
Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, the Osun State Chairman of the NNPP, issued a statement in Osogbo on Monday, outlining his party’s achievements and its potential to move the state forward. He emphasized that NNPP has already demonstrated its pro-people stance, citing the impressive performance of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, as a model.
Odeyemi praised Aregbesola’s political stature, asserting that he is no political liability for Osun, but rather an asset. He pointed out that even Aregbesola’s former political allies acknowledge his influence, even though they are reluctant to admit it. Odeyemi further referenced claims made by members of the APC that Aregbesola’s actions were responsible for the party’s poor showing in the 2022 gubernatorial election in Osun.
“Ogbeni Aregbesola is an asset, no doubt about that,” said Odeyemi. “His former political family knows this truth but continues to shy away from it. If they truly believed otherwise, they would not have been blaming him for their losses in the 2022 election.”
A Call for Unity and Change in Osun
Odeyemi made a direct appeal to Aregbesola to consider joining NNPP, stating that Osun is currently in a state of political turmoil and requires a strong, positive force to lead it towards a brighter future. He emphasized that Aregbesola’s experience and influence could play a crucial role in the state’s revival and development.
“Osun State is in a state of quagmire. We need a positive force to reclaim it,” Odeyemi said. “Having Aregbesola on board with NNPP would no doubt strengthen our chances in the 2027 general elections. Our goals align; we both desire the prosperity and happiness of the people of Osun. Together, we can make history.”
Dr. Odeyemi concluded his statement by extending an invitation to Aregbesola and his supporters to join the NNPP, with hopes that their collaboration would bring about a prosperous future for Osun.
The Political Landscape in Osun
This development comes at a time when Osun’s political climate is charged with tensions, especially following the fallout from the 2022 gubernatorial election. As Aregbesola seeks to reposition himself and his group politically, his next move could have significant implications for the 2026 governorship race in Osun and the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
For more on political developments in Nigeria, you can read about Aregbesola’s exit from APC and NNPP’s push for progressive leadership.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the 2026 governorship election on the horizon, all eyes will be on Osun State to see if Aregbesola will accept the NNPP’s invitation. His decision could reshape the political landscape in the region and play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of future elections.
