… Asks Governor Adeleke to comply with the court ruling to resolve Osun LGAs crisis
By Eniola Philip and Joy Joseph
His Excellency, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi, popularly known as BOA, served as the immediate Deputy Governor of Osun State from 2018 to 2022. He claims the APC was rigged out of the 2022 governorship election in Osun State by Senator Ademola Adeleke of the PDP and vows to prevent a repeat in 2026. As a financial expert and successful entrepreneur, BOA believes he’s the most qualified and experienced candidate for the APC’s 2026 contest, given his recent tenure as Deputy Governor and experience as Acting Governor.
There were reports of vote buying and low voter turnout in the last bye-elections. What can leaders like you do to reverse this trend?.
Vote-buying remains a major challenge in our electoral process, often driven by candidates’ fear of lacking popularity or support from the electorate. Truly credible and principled candidates wouldn’t resort to buying votes; this practice stems from a lack of integrity and desperation. It reflects deeper problems within the political landscape. It is a consequence of the overall electoral system and culture that needs to be addressed. More voter education and the need to uphold the sanctity of the process are pivotal to addressing this challenge.
On the low turnout,bye-elections often don’t receive the same level of publicity and attention that general elections are given. Politicians and the electorate sometimes treat these elections with levity or leave them to chance. The limited awareness and publicity surrounding bye-elections as well as the credibility and character of the candidates presented contribute significantly to low voter turnout and engagement. When parties field candidates who are genuinely loved by the people, there tends to be a higher level of enthusiasm and participation from the electorate. On the other hand, when candidates lack credibility or integrity, it negatively affects voter confidence and engagement.
To address these challenges, he says, it is essential to intensify efforts in creating awareness and generating interest around bye-elections. By doing so, we can foster a more engaged and informed electorate, ultimately strengthening our democratic process.
As a former deputy governor, what reforms would you suggest to improve the credibility of elections in Nigeria?
Over time, we have witnessed a steady and commendable improvement in the credibility of our electoral process. The introduction of technological devices, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic transmission of results, has brought a new level of transparency and accountability to elections in Nigeria.
The Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] deserves some credit for the progress made so far. Its efforts to embrace innovation and improve logistics have contributed significantly to restoring public confidence in our democracy. Of course, the process is not perfect, and challenges still exist. But what is important is that we are moving in the right direction.Electoral reform is not a one-off event — it is a continuous exercise. There will always be room for improvement, especially in areas like voter education, security coordination, and swift resolution of electoral disputes. As technology evolves, so should our systems and frameworks to ensure they remain secure, inclusive, and efficient. Only then can we build a system where every Nigerian voter feels truly empowered and confident in the sanctity of his or her vote.
What are the top three challenges facing Osun State right now, and how should they be addressed?
First and foremost, I must commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the bold economic reforms he has initiated since assuming office. These reforms — particularly those ensuring more financial autonomy and improved revenue allocation to the states — are commendable. The fact that more fund is available to state government is a significant step towards strengthening our federal structure and empowering local development. For instance, last Central Bank of Nigeria report showed that Osun State government received over ₦133 billion between January and June this year as federal allocations. This is a substantial amount by any standard. When compared with our tenure that received a total of N416billion for enrire four years. However, the critical question we must ask is: where is the impact? Sadly, the average citizen in Osun is yet to feel the benefits of this funding in any meaningful way. We only witness policies and actions that raise serious concerns — such as the sacking of 1,000 teachers for political reason, when most schools have less than 25% of the required teachers. This supposes to be the time, when we should be investing heavily in education and human capital development, retrenching teachers is not only counterproductive but dangerous for our future.
While the Federal Government, under President Tinubu, has shown commitment and delivered resources to support development across the states, it is incumbent upon Osun state government, to use the resources transparently, wisely, and effectively. The people deserve to see real change — in education, agriculture, infrastructure, and security, as these are the main thrust of governance. On security, Osun was regarded as one of the safest states in the country in the past. Today, however, that status is lost. Rising cases of insecurity are painting a troubling picture, and urgent action is needed to restore confidence and safety.
Again, it is expedient to put an end to the ongoing political tussle between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)-led government and the All Progressives Congress (APC). This prolonged conflict serves no one — not the people, not the workers, and certainly not the democratic process we all claim to uphold. The only way lasting peace and political stability can be restored in Osun is through respect for the law and genuine regard for the will of the people. The current administration must realise that governance is not about political vendettas or unilateral control; it is about service, and the rule of law.
Osun State governor should live above pettiness by and respect the court’s ruling, allowing local governments to function with legitimate leadership. The ongoing crisis with Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees NULGE, which has resulted in months-long strike, is unacceptable. Governance should be guided by the constitution, judicial decisions, and the people’s interests, not ego or party rivalry. Denying the local governments functional leadership, even after a legal decision has been made, is a disservice to grassroots development.
I urge the governor to do the right thing: respect the court’s ruling and instruct NULGE staff to resume work.
How united is your party ahead of the next major election?
As we move closer to the next governorship election in Osun State, it’s clear that the political landscape is becoming more active and dynamic. It is in the general public can that over 12 aspirants have already shown interest in contesting for the governorship under our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). This is a strong indication of the vibrancy and competitiveness within our ranks — a party where ideas thrive, leadership potential is abundant, and the democratic spirit is alive.
We are also witnessing a wave of political heavyweights and key stakeholders joining our party on a daily basis from the ruling party in the state and this includes respected individuals from various other political backgrounds. The growing number of defectors and new members is not just a coincidence — it is a clear sign that our party is being recognised as the strongest, most united, and most viable platform for delivering real development in Osun. Needed mentioning is that we have two serving senators and three members of the House of Representatives that were elected under the ruling party already defected to our party and more are on their way. People are coming to the APC not because they were forced or persuaded, but because they see genuine unity, internal discipline, and a shared vision for Osun’s future. What sets us apart is the genuine interest in the wellbeing of our people ; maturity in politics and cohesion within our party. While many may be vying for the ticket, there is a common understanding that the party is supreme. Once the party makes its choice — through a transparent, fair, and democratic process — all members will rally behind that candidate. This is the spirit that binds us. So, as the political temperature rises, let it be known that APC in Osun State remains a united family — stronger, more attractive, and more prepared than ever to restore purposeful governance to our people.
Why do you think APC lost the last gubernatorial election in Osun, and how can the party regain the trust of the electorate?
Let it be absolutely clear — the outcome of the last election didn’t reflect the true will of the people of Osun State. We didn’t lose at the ballot box; rather, we were systematically rigged out. What happened wasn’t a fair democratic process, but a carefully orchestrated manipulation of the electoral system, aided by certain elements within the security forces who abandoned their constitutional duty of neutrality. Throughout the campaign, it was evident that our support base remained strong. Our programmes, policies, and achievements spoke for themselves, and the people responded positively. But on election day, irregularities were widespread. There were credible reports of disruption of polling units in some areas, killing and threat to lives; ballot box snatching and late voting, and sometimes with the complicity, of security operatives. This was not just an injustice to our party; it’s an affront to democracy. However, after that charade, people have seen the difference and we are back to our known street credibility and stronger.
Were lessons learned from the last gubernatorial election in Osun? What are the lessons?
Like most incidents in Life, certainly, there are a lot of lessons learnt. APC is a union of noble people, deeply rooted in strong traditions and principles. Our antecedents have always emphasised the importance of conducting elections in a manner that reflects our values of respect to electorates and rule of elections and that elections shouldn’t be a do-or-die affair. However, the people we contested against didn’t see it that way. Going forward, we are going to take election security more seriously. Again, we’ve realised that unity is absolutely essential. The minor division within our rank was also one of the contributing factors to the charade that happened in the 2022 governorship election. I’m pleased to tell you that we more united than before.
There are reports that you are contesting for the next year governorship election in Osun State. What drives your ambition to govern the state?
My motivation stems from a genuine desire to bring transformational leadership that prioritises the welfare and development of our communities. I’m deeply passionate about my people and committed to changing the current narrative, frankly speaking what we have now can’t be regarded as effective and efficient governance, and this most change.
Having served as Deputy Governor and Acting Governor for four years, I possess firsthand deep knowledge of internal works of government. Among all the aspirants contesting APC govenorship ticket, I have the most extensive and relevant experience to sail the state back to the path of growth, economic development and meaningful living.
With my erudite principal’s declaration that he wouldn’t recontest, the leadership mantle must be passed to someone who understands the new normal complexities of governance.
My proven track record, combined with my educational background and practical experience, positions me uniquely to hit the ground running from day one. Governance requires practical experience, and I have been on the frontlines, managing complex issues.
While others may have spent time in government, none have the unique experience of having led the state as I have. To use an analogy, a nurse may work in a hospital for 20 years, but that does not make the nurse a doctor. Similarly, leadership of a state demands more than tenure; it requires proven executive experience and I thank the good people of Osun for giving me opportunity to serve as their deputy governor.
Also, I hold multiple degrees in critical fields, combining academic rigour with hands-on experience in transformational leadership, public finance, fiscal discipline, wealth creation, public administration, and infrastructure renewal. My administration will prioritise the welfare, education, health, food security, security, and economic prosperity of my people.
