The 2026 Osun State governorship election includes three candidates under 40, with the youngest at 37 years old. These candidates from smaller parties are aiming to challenge the state's major political forces.
Olalekan Ogunsakin: The Youngest Candidate at 37
Olalekan Ogunsakin, aged 37, is the youngest candidate in the race. He represents the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and is among the contenders from smaller parties seeking to win the state's highest office.
Olajide Esan: 39-Year-Old AAC Candidate with a BSc
Olajide Esan, 39, is contesting under the African Action Congress (AAC). He holds a First School Leaving Certificate, a Senior Secondary School Certificate, and a Bachelor of Science degree. His running mate is Bello Muideen Yekeen, who is 51 years old.
Adeyemi-Doro Adesina: Withdrawal and Endorsement
Adeyemi-Doro Adesina, also 39, was the governorship candidate for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) before withdrawing. On Saturday, August 8, he announced his withdrawal and endorsed the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking on Channels Television's The Morning Brief on Monday, August 10, Adesina explained that his decision was guided by what he believed was in the best interest of Osun State and its people. He said his entry into politics was never about personal gain or a desire to hold office, but about the drive to serve.
Earlier reports indicated that Osun State is heading into its most watched political contest in years, with 14 candidates on the ballot for the governorship election set for Saturday, August 15, 2026.
While the field is broad, three candidates have emerged as the most prominent contenders: incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Najeem Salam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The inclusion of young candidates like Ogunsakin, Esan, and Adesina highlights the growing presence of fresh faces in the state's political landscape, though the major parties remain led by more established figures.
