Politics

AMBO’s Message to Osogbo: A Promise of Restoration, Unity, and Justice

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 20th, 2026.

*AMBO’s Message to Osogbo: A Promise of Restoration, Unity, and Justice*

By Adeleke Adenike

As Osun State moves closer to the August 15 governorship election, campaign messages are beginning to define the choices before the electorate. One of the most consequential statements in recent weeks came from the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), during his engagement with the people of Osogbo.

His speech was not merely a political address; it was a message of reassurance, restoration, and unity.

*Reaffirming Osogbo’s Status*

At the heart of AMBO’s address was a declaration that resonated deeply with the people of Osogbo:

“It is God Almighty who ordained Osogbo to be the capital of Osun State. If it had not been God’s will, the capital could have been elsewhere. But it pleased God that Osogbo should be the capital of Osun State.”

For many residents, this was more than a religious expression. It was a reaffirmation of Osogbo’s constitutional and historical status as the administrative heart of the state. In a period when concerns have been raised over the perceived erosion of the city’s status, AMBO’s words offered reassurance.

*Protecting the Interests of the Capital*

Even more emphatic was his pledge to protect the interests of the state capital: “Whatever rightfully belongs to Osogbo, I will never allow it to be taken away. Even if it were Ikire or any other town seeking to claim what rightly belongs to Osogbo, I would ensure that Osogbo retains what is its own.”

This commitment carries significant political implications. A state capital is more than the seat of government; it is the hub of public administration, commerce, infrastructure, investment, and employment. Protecting its institutional relevance is therefore not merely about civic pride, it is about safeguarding economic opportunities and ensuring orderly governance.

Yet, AMBO carefully balanced his defence of Osogbo with a message of peace and inclusion. Rather than encouraging regional rivalry, he urged cooperation among all communities: “By the grace of God, be at peace. Let us work together, because it is through unity and cooperation that we can all enjoy the benefits together.”

That appeal reflects a leadership philosophy that prioritises consensus over confrontation and unity over division.

*A Vision for Restoration and Competence*

Perhaps the defining theme of the speech was restoration. AMBO declared: “Whatever needs to be corrected or restored will be addressed by the grace of God.”

The significance of that statement extends beyond Osogbo. It speaks to a broader aspiration among many citizens for the restoration of confidence in governance, equitable development, institutional balance, and fairness in public administration.

Another notable aspect of the speech was AMBO’s recognition of the leadership qualities of Kunle Rasheed Adegoke SAN, APC Osun Central Senatorial candidate. Rather than engaging in partisan rhetoric, he praised the legal luminary’s intellect and capacity for public service: “When a community is blessed with a son who has character, courage, education, understands justice, and also possesses what people call native intelligence—natural wisdom and sound judgment, such a person is a great asset.”

In an era when political discourse is often characterised by personal attacks and division, acknowledging competence and leadership wherever it exists represents a refreshing departure from the norm.

*A Call to Civic Action*

AMBO also reminded the people that democracy demands participation, urging parents to encourage their children and neighbours to vote. His appeal was simple: “When the election comes, they should come out to vote. We are coming to defend the rights of Osogbo. We are determined to ensure that Osogbo enjoys what rightfully belongs to it.”

Ultimately, this was more than an election speech. It was a statement of intent. It presented a vision rooted in justice, inclusion, peaceful coexistence, and institutional restoration.

*Conclusion*

Whether voters embrace that vision will be determined at the ballot box. But one thing is clear: AMBO has introduced restoration as a defining theme of the 2026 governorship campaign.

For many residents of Osun State, the challenge now is no longer simply choosing a governor. It is choosing the kind of leadership that can restore confidence, protect institutions, promote fairness, and unite the state behind a common purpose.

As AMBO concluded his address with a plea for solidarity: “By the grace of God, we shall restore what needs to be restored and put things back in proper order… I appeal to everyone to remain united and not allow division or selfish interests to separate us.”

That may well become the enduring message of his campaign: *Restoration through unity, justice, and purposeful leadership.*

*Adeleke Adenike writes from Osogbo’