The Centre Against Violence in Politics (CAVIP), a civil rights group, has raised concerns over an alleged plot by certain political elements in Osun State to attack the former governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola. The group claims the plan stems from perceptions that Oyetola is obstructing the political ambitions of some stakeholders ahead of the 2026 Osun gubernatorial elections.
According to sources close to CAVIP, the alleged conspiracy involves dissident members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, collaborating with prominent figures within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The group alleged that the conspirators believe Oyetola is unwilling to relinquish the APC’s governorship ticket and suspect he is backed by the Presidency to challenge the reelection bid of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Allegations of Pressure on Oyetola
The sources suggest that while Oyetola himself may not be actively pursuing the governorship ticket, a faction coordinated by his wife, Alhaja Kafayat Oyetola, is determined to push his candidacy. Key figures in this faction reportedly include notable party leaders and traditional rulers such as Prince Adebayo Adeleke (Banik), Comrade Amitolu Shittu, and the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdulrasheed Ayotunde Olabomi.
This faction reportedly plans to leverage legal strategies to secure electoral victory for Oyetola, with the belief that his ministerial position guarantees a federal safety net even if he loses the governorship race.
CAVIP Calls for Peaceful Politics
In a statement jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Ismail Ewulomi, and Secretary, Comrade Michael Adebanire, CAVIP condemned any plans of violence, describing such acts as barbaric and contrary to democratic principles. The group urged political actors to adopt a peaceful approach to resolving disputes, emphasizing that “eliminating opponents to achieve political goals is unacceptable and against God’s commandments.”
The group also appealed to security agencies to enhance protection around Oyetola and advised him to exercise caution regarding his movements and associations.
Lessons from History
CAVIP recalled the tragic assassinations of political figures such as Hon. Odunayo Olagbaju and Chief Bola Ige, urging all stakeholders to avoid a repeat of such violent episodes in Osun’s political history.
APC Leadership Passes Vote of Confidence on Oyetola
Meanwhile, the Osun APC State Executive Committee recently passed a vote of confidence on Oyetola, acknowledging his financial and moral support to the party. The party leadership clarified that it has not endorsed any candidate for the 2026 governorship election, urging party executives to remain neutral and focused on strengthening unity within the party.
The resolution stated, “It is morally wrong for party officers to openly support any governorship aspirant. As leaders, we must avoid division and work collectively to ensure the APC regains control of the Bola Ige House in 2026.”
The statement concluded with a call for proactive leadership at the grassroots level to rebuild the party and prepare for the upcoming elections.
This development highlights growing tensions within Osun’s political landscape as various stakeholders position themselves ahead of the 2026 governorship race.
