The governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has finally conceded defeat to Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, who was declared the winner of the governorship election held on August 15, 2026.

Mr Oyebamiji disclosed in a statement on X on Saturday that he accepted the outcome of the election, but noted that he could not forget the painful incident of violence and lives that were lost in the state.

“Today, I addressed our leaders, members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State on the outcome of the August 15, 2026 governorship election and the road ahead,” he said.

He stated that he remained grateful to those who stood by his aspiration throughout the journey, including President Bola Tinubu, a former national chairman of the APC, Bisi Akande, and a former governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola.

“While we accept the outcome of the election and congratulate the winner, we cannot forget the painful incidents of violence and the lives that were lost. I mourn every victim of political violence and stand in solidarity with their families. 

“I call on the relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. No political contest should cost any Nigerian their life,” he said.

He noted that the governorship election had gone by, but his commitment to Osun State remained unwavering, adding that where there are legitimate concerns, the parties concerned would continue to seek justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means.

“I urge our supporters not to be discouraged. We must remain calm, united and resolute, while keeping faith in democracy and the institutions established to protect it.

“As we now turn our attention to the 2027 general election, I call on every APC member and supporter to close ranks, strengthen our structures and rededicate ourselves to the task ahead,” he stated. 

Mr Oyebamiji said his immediate responsibility is to mobilise for the re-election of Mr Tinubu and the success of all APC candidates in the state.

The Peoples Gazette reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Mr Adeleke the winner after he secured 511,067 votes, while Mr Oyebamiji polled 444,815 votes across the 30 local government areas of the state.