Former Nigerian senator Babafemi Ojudu has identified several factors he believes contributed to the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s defeat in the just-concluded Osun State governorship election.
Ojudu, a former senator who represented Ekiti Central, shared his assessment on his Facebook page on Sunday, August 17, under the title, “Those Who Defeated the APC in Osun State.”
In his lengthy analysis, the former lawmaker listed 15 factors and individuals he believed played a role in the outcome of the election.
Economic hardship, internal issues
Ojudu identified the prevailing economic hardship and hunger in the country as one of the major issues that worked against the APC during the election.
He suggested that the difficult economic situation affected voters’ perception of the ruling party and contributed to the outcome at the polls.
The former senator also criticised the freezing of Osun State Government accounts, arguing that the action may have strengthened sympathy for Governor Ademola Adeleke instead of weakening his political base.
Ojudu criticises APC members
Several APC figures also came under criticism in Ojudu’s assessment.
He accused Senator Fadahunsi of damaging the party’s image over reported comments suggesting that members of the Accord Party should be killed.
Hon. Wole Oke was also criticised over his public references to President Bola Tinubu and the influence of the presidency, which Ojudu suggested became counterproductive during the campaign.
A campaigner identified as Ero Arike was similarly mentioned, with Ojudu faulting what he described as her “endless rants and curses.”
Former Osun State Governor Gboyega Oyetola also featured prominently in the former senator’s assessment.
Ojudu blamed Oyetola for allegedly imposing a candidate on the party instead of allowing members to freely choose its standard-bearer. According to him, the decision created resentment within the APC and contributed to the party’s eventual loss.
Davido, Adeleke’s dancing and campaign strategy
Interestingly, Ojudu also highlighted factors that worked in Adeleke’s favour.
He pointed to the governor’s famous dancing style as one of the elements that helped boost his popularity among voters.
The former senator also singled out Afrobeats star Davido, who is Adeleke’s nephew, for his role in attracting large crowds during the governor’s campaign activities.
Ojudu further praised the people of Osun State for what he described as their determination and fearlessness during the election.
He also noted the creativity of campaign songs used by the different political camps, suggesting that they played a role in shaping the mood and messaging of the election.
Adeleke ultimately defeated APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji in the governorship contest, securing another term in office.
Ojudu’s assessment has since generated reactions online, with several commenters debating his explanation of why the APC failed to reclaim the Osun governorship seat.
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