The African Action Congress has accused rival Osun governorship candidates of avoiding public scrutiny after their absence forced a planned debate to be cancelled.
The African Action Congress has launched a blistering attack on rival candidates ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, accusing them of running away from public scrutiny.
AAC governorship candidate Olajide Esan criticised Governor Ademola Adeleke and candidates of the APC and ADC over their alleged absence from a scheduled debate.
The debate, organised ahead of the August 2026 governorship election, was reportedly cancelled after several leading candidates failed to attend.
AAC Questions What Candidates Have to Offer
Esan used the development to challenge his opponents to explain why they were unwilling to appear before voters and defend their records, programmes and plans for the state.
The AAC candidate accused the absent candidates of depriving Osun voters of the opportunity to compare their positions on critical issues.
The controversy comes at a crucial stage of the election campaign, with the August 15 poll drawing closer.
Debate Absence Triggers Backlash
The debate boycott has become a fresh political talking point in Osun.
Reports indicate that candidates from major parties, including the APC, ADC and the incumbent camp, were among those criticised over their absence.
For the AAC, the controversy provides an opportunity to portray Esan as willing to face voters and defend his plans publicly.
The party has challenged voters to scrutinise candidates based on their programmes rather than campaign promises and political affiliations.
Osun Race Enters Critical Stage
The Osun governorship election is scheduled for August 2026, with Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking another term and major opposition parties mounting their own campaigns.
The contest has already generated intense political activity, with parties positioning their candidates and mobilising supporters across the state.
With election day approaching, public debates could become increasingly important as voters assess the competing candidates.
The AAC’s latest attack has therefore added another layer to an already heated Osun political contest.