Osun Government Accuses APC’s Bola Oyebamiji of Mismanagement

The government of Osun State has publicly criticized Bola Oyebamiji, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming he is unfit to lead the state. The allegations were outlined in a statement by the office of Governor Ademola Adeleke, delivered by spokesperson Olawale Rasheed in Osogbo. The announcement comes just ahead of the official start of the governorship campaign, set for March 11, 2024.

Rasheed detailed a list of 23 reasons supporting the administration’s claim that Oyebamiji lacks the necessary qualifications and competency for the governorship role. He asserted that the candidate’s track record in three key areas demonstrates his unsuitability. “The APC candidate failed all the tests by all accounts,” Rasheed remarked, indicating that more comprehensive information will be shared once the campaign officially begins.

The spokesperson’s comments highlighted Oyebamiji’s previous role as the head of the Osun State Investment Company (OSICOL), where he allegedly mismanaged state resources. Rasheed accused him of mishandling state properties and mining assets, including the Segilola project, which reportedly resulted in significant financial losses for the state until the current administration renegotiated terms.

Further allegations include Oyebamiji’s tenure as Finance Commissioner. Rasheed stated that he facilitated the sale of Osun’s holdings, undermining transparency, and supported policies that neglected the welfare of workers. “He endorsed extreme anti-worker policies, including the implementation of half salaries for workers,” Rasheed said, emphasizing the negative impact on public service employees.

Rasheed also claimed that Oyebamiji’s financial decisions contributed to a deteriorating debt profile for Osun State. By 2022, the state’s debt reached an unprecedented level before Governor Adeleke managed to reduce it by over 40 percent, according to the National Debt Management Office. The accusations extend to procurement practices, with Rasheed asserting that Oyebamiji politicized the Osun Procurement Board, leading to illegal authorizations.

Concerns regarding the funding of Osun State University were also raised. Rasheed alleged that Oyebamiji’s actions led to a critical funding shortfall, jeopardizing essential projects necessary for maintaining the university’s accreditation across various disciplines.

The statement criticized Oyebamiji’s approach to campaign messaging, suggesting he has not demonstrated sensitivity to the religious diversity of Osun State. Rasheed accused him of promoting divisive narratives during election campaigns. Additionally, questions were raised about Oyebamiji’s qualifications, particularly a change in his name on official filings.

In closing, Rasheed asserted that the citizens of Osun deserve a leader with a proven track record of responsible governance. He positioned Governor Adeleke as a capable candidate, committed to propelling the state forward through innovative policies and effective leadership.

The allegations mark a significant escalation in the political landscape of Osun State as parties gear up for the upcoming governorship campaign season. With both candidates now in the spotlight, the forthcoming months will be crucial in shaping the state’s political future.