Omisore Emerges as Key Political Kingmaker in Osun

Senator Iyiola Omisore is not a candidate in the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, yet he is being sought after by various candidates across party lines for his political influence. Omisore, a former two-term senator and ex-National Secretary of the APC, has established himself as a kingmaker in the political landscape.

His significance stems from three main factors: his strong grassroots loyalty in Ife land, which encompasses four local governments; his pivotal role in the 2018 governorship election, where he held the deciding votes as a third-party candidate and formed a coalition with the APC to support Gboyega Oyetola; and his extensive institutional reach, which includes a network from local ward councils to the presidency in Abuja. His support not only brings votes but also an organized campaign structure and financial resources.

The APC has included him in its 276-member National Campaign Council for the 2026 election, highlighting his importance in the competitive race against incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.