Former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has dismissed any possibility of forming an alliance with other groups or individuals ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.
Aregbesola made this declaration during a reception hosted in his honor by the Omoluabi Progressives, a political movement he established, on the occasion of his 68th birthday, celebrated in Osogbo on Sunday.
During his address, Aregbesola expressed optimism about his group’s prospects in the next election, stating, “By this time next year, we will all be close to Abere (Osun Governor’s Office). May God make it so.”
Addressing growing speculation about a potential coalition, he clarified the position of his faction.
“So, people are having untrue impression that we will align with anyone (in the governorship poll).
We are not going to align with anyone. We are going to pursue our political interest separately.
No alliance with anyone or group. By the grace of God, this group will win.
We will contest and we will win. The election that will follow that of next year….” he affirmed.
Aregbesola also reflected on the importance of honoring mothers during birthday celebrations, adding,
“Whenever you are celebrating birthday, during the celebration, always remember to pray for your mother.
The pains they endure during childbirth is enormous. So whether alive or late, birthday celebrations should be dedicated to prayers for mothers.”
He went on to express gratitude to the event’s organizers, saying, “I am happy for this honor. I pray for you all, may you continue to succeed in all your endeavors.”
Speaking earlier at the gathering, Moshood Adeoti, who served as Secretary to the State Government under Aregbesola, urged members of the Omoluabi Progressives to stay true to the movement’s founding principles.
Representing Governor Ademola Adeleke at the event, Biyi Odunlade praised Aregbesola’s enduring influence on governance in Osun.
“I celebrate you because you left a good template for good governance in Osun State that can not be faulted by anybody.
Your legacy of service is exemplary and remarkable, one that stands you out among your contemporaries,” he said.
The celebration was well attended by Aregbesola’s political allies from Lagos, members of the Omoluabi Progressives, and former state appointees.
