Lucky Adesoga: Osun 2026: The AMBO sanitising effect and APC’s battle against toxic politics

In the political landscape of Osun, a particular phrase has gained significant traction - "AMBO sanitising effect." This term refers to the impact of Bola Oyebamiji's (AMBO) leadership philosophy, which emphasizes calmness, competence, and responsible governance. The controversy surrounding Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who warned supporters to "kill" APC members, has only underscored the importance of this concept.

Fadahunsi maintains that his words were metaphorical, meaning political defeat rather than violence. However, the incident has sparked police investigations and calls for action, adding to the already tense political atmosphere. The episode highlights the need for a different kind of political culture in Osun, one that moves away from provocation, accusation, and theatrical confrontation. Instead, it advocates for a return to the business of ideas, competence, and responsible leadership.

Oyebamiji, the APC governorship candidate, has emerged as a champion of this new political temperament. He consistently stresses the importance of governance being "serious business" and warns against radicalism as a qualification for governing a state. His position is clear: elections should not be treated as warfare, and physical violence against political opponents is unacceptable.

The AMBO sanitising effect is about setting a higher standard of political conduct. If Fadahunsi intended his remarks metaphorically, he should make that meaning clear and reject violence against political opponents. Allegations of attacks on APC supporters should be thoroughly investigated, and neither grievance nor provocation should provide a license for language that can be reasonably understood as encouraging physical violence.

Oyebamiji's political proposition offers a stark contrast to the increasingly toxic political environment surrounding the election. His consistent emphasis on governance as a management responsibility, rather than a stage for performance, resonates deeply with voters. His extensive background in banking, public finance, and public administration lends weight to this proposition, particularly his tenure at the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

Under his leadership, NIWA implemented significant reforms, including the introduction of the National Inland Waterways Transportation Code and the establishment of Water Marshals to enforce safety regulations. This resulted in a substantial increase in the number of Water Marshals, improved safety campaigns, and overall enhanced operational efficiency, revenue, and regulatory oversight.

Oyebamiji's work at NIWA has been recognized by various bodies, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who praised the reforms and awarded Oyebamiji the "Most Media Friendly Maritime CEO" for his transparency and accessibility.

In summary, the AMBO sanitising effect represents a crucial shift in Osun's political landscape. It advocates for a return to the fundamentals of governance, emphasizing competence, responsibility, and a clear distinction between political discourse and violence. Bola Oyebamiji's leadership philosophy offers voters a clear proposition for a more orderly, competent, and violence-free political environment in Osun.