Rejoinder: Exposing the Falsehood in PDP’s Propaganda, By: Salam Mustapha

The recent write-up circulating on social media among PDP sympathizers, falsely alleging internal chaos within Osun APC, is nothing but a baseless attempt to discredit the party’s leadership and create division where none exists. This malicious propaganda is not only riddled with inaccuracies but also betrays the desperation of PDP and its sympathizers as they fear the rising strength of APC under the leadership of Sooko Lawal Tajudeen, Osun State APC Chairman, ahead of 2026.

First, let’s address the core claim that Marine Minister, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, has opted out of the 2026 gubernatorial race. This is a blatant lie with no factual backing. Oyetola remains committed to the growth of Osun State and is a strategic leader in the party. There is no credible report, as claimed, that he has stepped down or been pressured to do so by any group within APC. Instead, Oyetola continues to play a vital role in uniting the party and strengthening its ranks ahead of future elections.

The claim that Chief Bisi Akande and other top APC leaders prevailed upon Oyetola to step down is also untrue. Chief Akande, as a respected elder statesman, has always been a champion of party unity and progress. The notion that he would lead a faction to push out Oyetola is nothing short of absurd. APC leaders, including Akande, are working together, with Oyetola playing an integral role in shaping the future of the party in Osun State.

As for the purported rivalry between Senator Ajibola Bashiru, Engr. Lanre Badmus, and Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, it is nothing but a figment of the writer’s imagination. These individuals are seasoned politicians with deep-rooted connections to the people of Osun. There is no "battle" to supplant anyone within the party. All are committed to working towards the collective goal of defeating PDP in the 2026 elections.

The baseless rumors of petitions and anti-graft accusations are mere distractions aimed at tarnishing the image of APC stalwarts. APC is a party known for its discipline and adherence to due process. Any empowerment programs run by its leaders are for the benefit of the people, not for personal gain, as alleged. The PDP should focus on its governance failures rather than concocting stories about non-existent anti-graft issues.

Finally, the PDP’s confidence that Governor Adeleke will "crush" any APC candidate is laughable. The people of Osun are well aware of the shortcomings of the current administration, and they are yearning for effective leadership, which only APC can provide. The attempt to paint APC contenders as "political ants" is an insult to the intelligence of the electorate, who will decide the next governor based on merit, not baseless rhetoric.

In conclusion, this propaganda write-up by PDP sympathizers is nothing more than a desperate attempt to destabilize Osun APC. The APC remains united, focused, and poised to reclaim Osun in 2026. Let the PDP focus on fixing its internal issues instead of peddling falsehoods. Osun deserves better, and APC is ready to deliver.