district. As preparations for the 2026 gubernatorial elections intensify, Ata’oja, Oba Jimo Oyetuji Olanipekun II, publicly announced his support for former governor Ogbeni
and the ADC. This move has exacerbated tensions among the state’s opposition parties. The King made the aforementioned statement during a courtesy visit to the Royal Palace in Osun after Aregebesola and ADC members completed their constituency tour. During the visit, Oba Olanipekun explicitly expressed his support for Aregebesola, calling him a leader he deeply respects and wishes to support. Osogbo “Your visit today is of great significance. I was unaware that you had joined a new political party. Your public statement, and that of those who follow you, signifies the support of the entire people. Wherever you see Aregebe, you will see me. Rauf Aregbesola “Aregebesola’s path this time is different from the past, for he comes with a new commitment to the well-being of the people. I have great respect for him because he refused when some critics pressured him to depose me,” the monarch said.
“We are not ungrateful. We are always united on political issues. I firmly support Aregebesola. I will never let him down.” “Wherever he goes, we will follow him.” *Ataoja, the country’s chief, added that he made the decision in hopes of re-establishing a government system that prioritizes social welfare and human capital development.* According to sources familiar with the political situation, the monarch’s public support for Aregbesola has unsettled other political parties given Aregbesola’s influence over traditional rulers.* One unnamed source stated, “For one of the country’s most respected traditional rulers, publicly announcing support for an opposition figure is no small matter. He is firm and undisguised. This alone is enough to send a strong signal in the political landscape.”* “As you can see, no one dares to challenge him. The opposition dares not speak out because they have realized that times have changed. The situation in the country will not be the same as before.” The source added, “The state is ready for a progressive government, a government that prioritizes social welfare and human capital development.” Osogbo