Osun Government Critiques APC Candidate’s Competence Ahead of Elections

The government of Osun State has issued a strong critique of Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming governorship election, citing 23 reasons why it believes he is unfit to lead the state. This statement, made by the office of Governor Ademola Adeleke through spokesperson Olawale Rasheed, was released in Osogbo ahead of the official campaign launch scheduled for March 11, 2024.

Rasheed emphasized that the administration intends to provide detailed accounts of its allegations once the campaigns officially begin. He outlined that Oyebamiji’s record can be evaluated across three broad categories—qualifications, competency, and suitability—indicating that he failed to meet the required standards in each.

As the former head of the Osun State Investment Company (OSICOL), Oyebamiji is accused of mismanaging state resources. The spokesperson claimed that during his tenure, mining assets, including the Segilola project, were mishandled, resulting in significant financial losses for the state until the current administration renegotiated the terms.

Rasheed further alleged that as Finance Commissioner, Oyebamiji authorized the sale of Osun’s holdings at Omoluabi through a process lacking transparency. His administration reportedly pursued anti-worker policies by supporting the non-payment of pension debts and other entitlements for senior citizens. Furthermore, he is accused of endorsing extreme measures, such as implementing half salaries for workers under the previous administration.

The spokesperson also criticized Oyebamiji for his management practices, claiming he retained Chams as the payroll manager instead of utilizing the SIFMIS application, which could have improved payroll oversight and reduced fraud. He asserted that Oyebamiji’s actions contributed to a weakened public service and undermined financial management within public institutions.

Among the more serious allegations, Rasheed cited the mismanagement of a $20 million World Bank primary healthcare grant, which he claimed became a slush fund under the previous administration. Additionally, Oyebamiji is accused of failing to sustainably manage Osun’s debt, which reached an all-time high by 2022 until Governor Adeleke reduced it by over 40 percent, according to the National Debt Management Office.

The governor’s office also raised concerns about Oyebamiji’s role as Chairman of the Osun Procurement Board, alleging that he politicized the procurement agency and oversaw extensive legal violations. Furthermore, his tenure reportedly led to inadequate funding for Osun State University, resulting in the abandonment of critical capital projects necessary for maintaining accreditation.

Rasheed expressed that Oyebamiji’s approach to campaigning has been divisive, alleging that he has failed to respect the religious diversity of Osun State by promoting narratives that foster religious bigotry. Questions surrounding his personal history and qualifications were also mentioned, specifically noting discrepancies in his name as filed with the Independent National Electoral Commission.

In conclusion, the governor’s office stated, “Osun people do not deserve a man with all the above antecedents as a governor.” They highlighted that Governor Adeleke has consistently demonstrated the passion and innovative capacity to elevate Osun State until 2030. This statement marks a significant escalation in the political landscape as parties gear up for the forthcoming gubernatorial campaign.