As political permutations ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election begin to take shape, calls are growing louder within the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the adoption of a consensus candidate, with many pointing to Benedict Olugboyega Alabi (BOA), the immediate past Deputy Governor, as the most unifying and strategic choice.

The push for Alabi’s candidacy comes in the wake of a major political development: the decision by former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola to withdraw from the 2026 race.

APC insiders say the move, though unexpected, has created a pivotal opportunity for the party to unite early behind a candidate capable of reclaiming the governorship and restoring progressive governance in the state.

“Oyetola’s withdrawal is not a setback but a chance to consolidate our strength around a tested and trusted hand. BOA is that hand,” said Prince Ade Mukaila, a party member from Orolu Local Government who spoke on behalf of the G26 Renewed Group.

The group argues that the APC cannot afford another divisive primary contest that could fracture the party. Instead, they are advocating for a strategic consensus around BOA, whom they describe as a loyal party man, tested administrator, and unifier with broad support across party factions.

“BOA stayed with the party through the storm of 2022. While many sought comfort in Abuja or elsewhere, he remained on the ground, working with the grassroots and rebuilding party structures across Osun,” the group stated.

According to them, Alabi’s unwavering loyalty and grassroots mobilization since the party’s 2022 electoral loss are qualities that cannot be ignored.

The group emphasised that Osun’s current socio-economic challenges require a candidate with governance experience, not a newcomer.

“BOA is not coming to learn on the job. He was a key part of the Oyetola administration, known for its prudence, calm leadership, and fiscal discipline. He understands the blueprint and can immediately hit the ground running,” said one of the supporters.

They also noted that Alabi’s candidacy offers a bridge between the party’s traditional base and the youth demographic, describing him as “humble, approachable, and well-loved across both urban and rural communities.”

The G22 Renewed Group believes that by adopting BOA as a consensus candidate, the APC would send a strong message that loyalty, sacrifice, and party discipline are rewarded, a principle that could energise the base ahead of 2026.

“This is not the time for experiments or sentimental choices. BOA is the natural successor in the current political equation, especially after Oyetola’s withdrawal. He represents continuity without controversy,” another stakeholder noted.

Describing Alabi as “a candidate of loyalty, experience, and unity,” the group concluded that adopting him as the consensus candidate is not just the easiest decision but the smartest for a party hoping to unseat the PDP in 2026.

“We must be strategic. Let us choose a leader who can govern from day one. BOA is ready. He is respected. He is electable. Let us declare, for the sake of Osun’s future: ‘BOA lo kan, it is BOA’s turn,” the statement concluded.