Members of the Omoluabi Progressives, a political group loyal to Rauf Aregbesola, the former governor of Osun State, have announced their decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued by the group’s Organising and Publicity Secretary, Abosede Oluwaseun, the move was the outcome of a consensus reached during a meeting in Ilesa on Sunday. The resolution was ratified by members from all 332 wards in Osun, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the APC’s leadership and its management of the party’s internal crises.
The statement cited reasons for the group’s exit, including the marginalization of its leaders, unjust suspensions and expulsions, as well as the APC’s failure to manage intra-party conflicts, which the group argued led to a significant loss in the recent elections. The group also expressed concern over the party’s declining popularity in Osun.
Following the decision, the group’s leadership conducted a voice vote, with members unanimously agreeing to switch allegiance to another political platform as they prepare for the 2026 governorship election in Osun.
Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the immediate-past Minister of Interior, addressed the gathering, praising the group for their unwavering commitment to good governance.
Aregbesola affirmed the resolution, expressing confidence in the group’s vision for Osun’s future and assuring members that the ongoing efforts to strengthen the group would soon yield results.
He said: “I am indeed happy that all of you have spoken with one voice. It is not just one voice but a united front to lead the way to our collective victory in the journey ahead.
“I wish to remind you that the journey we are embarking on now is to further raise the level of prosperity of our dear state through responsible leadership.
“The path we have toed is a smooth path, highly reassuring and full of good tides that will propel our dear state to greatness.
“Therefore, you must show more commitment and attract genuine people who are ready to walk this path of righteousness with us.
“We are open to all regardless of political, religious, or socio-cultural leanings. We have the numbers, strength, and political acumen to provide a leadership that will make Osun the toast of its peers. By the grace of God, we shall succeed.”
The group’s chairman, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji, also thanked members for their dedication and pledged to continue providing leadership that protects their interests. He stressed that the success of Omoluabi Progressives would rely on the collective commitment of its members.
The Omoluabi Progressives was formed after the dissolution of The Osun Progressives (TOP) in 2024, a faction within the Osun APC aligned with Aregbesola. Political analysts have speculated that the Omoluabi Progressives could emerge as a significant third force in the 2026 gubernatorial race in Osun.
