Introduction to the Issue
The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Osun State Chapter, has urged political parties to break away from what it described as a long-standing pattern of marginalisation of Christians in the state’s leadership structure. Ahead of the political parties’ primaries for the August 8, 2026, governorship election, the body called on parties to ensure that Christians are allowed to emerge as their governorship candidates, saying such inclusion would promote fairness and balance.
The Call for Inclusion
Addressing a press conference at the CAN Secretariat in Owode-Ede on Friday, the Chairman of YOWICAN in Osun, Ayodele Owoofe, said Christians in the state have for too long been relegated to the position of deputy governors, describing the trend as unjust and exclusionary. He said, “Christians in Osun State have remained steadfast and supportive of governance. We have contributed actively to the growth and stability of the state. It is therefore only fair and just that political parties recognize this by providing Christians the platform to lead, in the same spirit of inclusion and equality that democracy demands.”
The Need for Balance
Owoofe stressed that the call was not against any religion but a plea for equity and representation. He argued that having a Christian as governor would promote trust, unity, and cooperation among all faith communities in the state. “Over the years, it has become noticeable that political parties consistently adopt the Muslim/Christian ticket, with little or no consideration for a Christian/Muslim ticket. As major stakeholders, we view this as an imbalance that undermines the inclusive spirit upon which political parties were founded,” he stated.
Competent Christian Leaders
The YOWICAN chairman added that there are competent and credible Christians within the political class who are capable of providing visionary leadership, urging party leaders to consider them in future elections and appointments. He noted that since the return of democracy, Osun has had Muslim governors, including Chief Bisi Akande, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola — all with Christian deputies. He also observed that many citizens view the incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, as having ties to both faiths.
The Perception of Marginalization
Owoofe said the consistent dominance of Muslim/Christian political pairings gives the impression that Christians are being sidelined in leadership opportunities. “As partners in the progress and unity of Osun, we humbly draw the attention of political parties to this imbalance. We appeal that future political arrangements reflect Christian/Muslim tickets to ensure fairness, justice, and equal opportunity,” he said. He concluded by reiterating the group’s position: “We are not against any religion, but the era of Christians being confined to the role of deputy governors must end. Christians are not second-class citizens. We deserve the opportunity to lead, to ensure true balance and inclusivity in Osun’s governance.”
Political Developments
Meanwhile, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, recently expressed optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would win the forthcoming 2026 governorship election in Osun State. Oyetola urged chieftains and members of the party in Osun State to be united and at peace with one another, describing it as a major means towards dislodging the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the state. Governor Adeleke has, however, expressed confidence in winning the August 8, 2026, governorship election, declaring that his popularity and performance will guarantee his re-election.
Confidence in Re-election
Speaking with journalists on Thursday after his screening at the National Campaign Organisation Committee (NCOC) Secretariat in Maitama, Abuja, Adeleke said he had performed “wonderfully well” and was confident that the people of Osun would return him for a second term. The governor, who was screened and cleared by the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the party’s Legacy House in Abuja ahead of the 2026 primary election, said his achievements in office had endeared him to the electorate. “It is because I have performed wonderfully well. There is something called fact-checking; as journalists, you should fact-check, and you will discover that I have done so well. My people are happy with me, and that is why they want me to continue,” he said.
Conclusion
The call by YOWICAN for political parties to consider Christian candidates for governorship positions highlights a perceived imbalance in the political leadership structure of Osun State. With the 2026 governorship election approaching, the issue of representation and inclusion is likely to remain a significant topic of discussion. The confidence expressed by both the APC and the incumbent governor in their chances of winning the election suggests a competitive political landscape, where the voices of various stakeholders, including religious groups, will play a crucial role.
FAQs
- Q: What is YOWICAN’s primary concern regarding the political structure in Osun State?
A: YOWICAN is concerned about the marginalization of Christians in the state’s leadership, particularly their consistent relegation to deputy governor positions. - Q: What solution does YOWICAN propose to address this issue?
A: YOWICAN proposes that political parties should consider Christian candidates for governorship positions to ensure fairness, justice, and equal opportunity. - Q: Who are the key figures mentioned in the context of the 2026 Osun State governorship election?
A: Key figures include Ayodele Owoofe, Chairman of YOWICAN in Osun; Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy; and Governor Ademola Adeleke. - Q: What is the significance of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State?
A: The election is significant because it presents an opportunity for political parties to address the issue of representation and inclusion, particularly concerning the religious balance in the state’s leadership.
