Guber Poll: Osun does not need entertainer but CEO — Presidency

The Presidency has declared that Osun State does not require an entertainer, but instead needs a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to steer the affairs of the state and its citizens. Temitope Ajayi, a Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, expressed his endorsement for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, during a town hall meeting organized by Arise TV for the gubernatorial election slated for August 15, 2026.

The APC candidate is vying against Najeem Salam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party. In response to the debate, Ajayi argued that the state should not seek an entertainer, campaigner or a long-time opposition politician, but a CEO capable of managing a financially strained public entity known as Osun State.

Based on his observations at the town hall, Ajayi claimed that Oyebamiji demonstrated a clearer understanding of governance as a managerial responsibility rather than simply a stage for political performance. Ajayi further stated that, strictly judging by policy articulation, knowledge of facts, fiscal prudence, and evidence of managerial competence, Oyebamiji emerged as the stronger contender.