OSUN 2026: Why AMBO remains unstoppable, by Tunde Faleye

Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge. “When a leader shows genuine concern for others and embodies admirable character, people don’t just obey — they willingly follow.” And when they follow willingly, the potential for growth, unity, and impact becomes limitless.

It is no longer news that AMBO is now more than a name – it has become a call to action. It is now A Movement. A Mission. A Mandate for Change. A rising force driven by purpose, built on integrity, and powered by the people. It is a movement born from the desire for a better Osun. A mission to restore dignity, progress, and true leadership. A mandate handed down by the people who believe it’s time for something different — and better in Osun state.

In a world where titles are abundant but trust is scarce, the defining quality of exceptional leadership is not authority — it’s authenticity. People may comply with those in power, but they only follow those whose hearts they trust and whose character they admire. A leader who shows genuine concern for others and lives with integrity.

As of today, more than eight well-qualified aspirants within the progressive fold in Osun State have formally declared their interest in securing the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for August 8, 2026. Each of these individuals brings valuable experience and credentials to the table, contributing to a vibrant and competitive political landscape.

However, among this array of contenders, one name continues to dominate the conversation—Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO). The pace and scale at which both APC party members and the wider public are rallying round his aspiration is not only remarkable but unprecedented in the political history of Osun State.

Since the Falex Foundation, a formidable political structure, hosted a widely attended and impactful endorsement programme for the gubernatorial aspiration of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) on April 17th, 2025, in Ilesa, the political tide has shifted dramatically in his favour.

That singular event marked the beginning of what has now become a cascade of endorsements from influential groups across the state—both within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and beyond. What followed has been a clear and growing declaration of support from various socio-political, youth, and grassroots organizations who believe in AMBO’s vision, competence, and integrity.

Among the notable groups that have publicly thrown their weight behind AMBO’s aspiration are:
• FALEX FOUNDATION
• OPPF (OSUN PROGRESSIVE POLITICAL FORUM)
• AMBO GRASSROOTERS
• AMBO MARSHALL
• AMBO BABES
• AMBO PROGRESSIVE SISTERS
• AMBO YOUTH MOVEMENT
• AMBO STUDENTS UNION GROUP
• AMBO MEDIA FRONTS
…to mention just a few.

These endorsements are more than symbolic—they reflect a groundswell of trust, belief, and readiness for a new kind of leadership in Osun State. From the elite circles to the grassroots, from women to youth, AMBO’s message of unity, change, and people-driven development is resonating powerfully across demographics. With such widespread backing and a clear vision for Osun’s future, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji continues to emerge not just as a candidate, but as a unifying force and beacon of hope for many.

A cursory examination of the political landscape in Osun State reveals a unique trend: the overwhelming acceptance and support for Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji’s (AMBO) 2026 governorship aspiration by a diverse range of stakeholders—party faithfuls, youth groups, community leaders, professionals, and everyday citizens alike.

This groundswell of support is not accidental. It is rooted in a constellation of qualities that distinguish him from the rest:

His Power of Genuine Concern
At the heart of AMBO’s leadership style is a deep and authentic concern for people. He doesn’t just speak about the needs of the people—he feels them, responds to them, and acts on them. His empathy is not performative; it’s practical, personal, and persistent. This rare quality earns him both respect and affection. Oyebamiji sincerely cares about the well-being, struggles, and growth of everyone in his circle, from the gateman to his co-management staff, he creates a deep emotional connection. People feel valued around him — not merely as workers, friends or followers, but as human beings. This sense of belonging built loyalty and endeared many towards him.

From my personal experience of him, his genuine concern shows up in every small thing about our relationship: listening actively, always available and ready to help, encouraging and recognizing efforts, checking in during tough times, and supporting personal and professional development. He’s approachable, reliable, trusted, and respected – the more reason he remains unstoppable.

His Character as a Silent Language of Leadership. While competence may open doors, it is character that keeps them open. In the case of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), his qualifications, experience, and exposure are undisputed—but it is his integrity, humility, and discipline that truly set him apart.

These qualities form the moral compass that draws people to him, earning him trust and admiration across diverse segments of society. In a time when many seek power through noise and spectacle, AMBO stands out as a leader who leads quietly but effectively. He does not rely on grandstanding to make his mark. Instead, his consistent display of ethical leadership, calm confidence, and people-centered values speak louder than words. His humility is not performative—it is deeply rooted in principle, and it reflects in how he engages, listens, and serves. By all standards, AMBO leads by character, not just charisma. His steady hands and composed demeanor offer a silent yet powerful reassurance of dependable leadership. In him, many see the rare combination of capacity and conscience—of someone who not only knows the way but also walks it with dignity and grace.

His Proven Competence. As a seasoned financial expert and former commissioner with a solid banking background, Oyebamiji possesses the capacity to manage state resources with precision and vision. His track record of effective administration and strategic decision-making positions him as someone more than capable of navigating the complex responsibilities of governance.

His Antecedents and Precedence. Oyebamiji, a multiple awards winner, is a man with the Midas touch—everything he handles turns to success. Whether in his private business, public finance, or administration, his involvement consistently yields outstanding results. A prime example of his transformative leadership is his tenure at Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), where he revitalized a nearly moribund organization and repositioned it into a flourishing, competitive institutions. His ability to transform challenges into opportunities has earned him a reputation as a solution-driven leader with a golden track record.

Leadership is best judged by history—and AMBO’s antecedents are rich with service, results, and integrity. His tenure in public service has consistently reflected transparency, progress, and people-focused impact. His impact was not by chance, but by strategic insight, disciplined execution, and a clear vision for growth. Oyebamiji’s exceptional ability to turn challenges into opportunities has earned him widespread recognition as a solution-driven leader—one whose record is marked by progress, productivity, and purpose. With a golden track record across multiple sectors, he stands tall as a beacon of capable and transformational leadership.

His Humility. Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji’s humility stands out as one of his most powerful assets in the race to clinch the governorship ticket of the APC—and ultimately win the 2026 Osun State gubernatorial election. In a political landscape often dominated by ego and bravado, Oyebamiji’s calm, respectful, and approachable nature has endeared him to party members, stakeholders, and the general public alike. His ability to lead without arrogance, listen without judgment, and serve without seeking applause continues to draw people to his vision and values. His humility remains a strength under control, and it is playing a vital role in the growing wave of support behind his candidacy.

These are some of the the pillars upon which the AMBO movement stands. They explain why his candidacy feels less like a political contest and more like a natural evolution—an emergence of leadership Osun truly deserves.

Dr. Tunde Faleye
APC stalwart, Ilesa-East Local Government Area