Ondo Politics: Ex-PDP Aspirant Bosun Arebuwa Signals Political Comeback

By Paul Joseph

Political discussions are intensifying across Ondo State as speculation mounts over a possible political comeback by former governorship aspirant Bosun Arebuwa, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), ahead of the next election cycle in the state.

Signals emerging from the Bòsún Àrèbùwà Ìmólè Political-Leadership Movement (BAIPoLM), a political support structure aligned with Arebuwa, indicate that renewed political activities linked to the former aspirant may commence in the coming months.

Supporters of the politician on Sunday say the anticipated move could galvanize his political associates, youth leaders and grassroots stakeholders who share his vision for governance and development across the state.

Although Arebuwa has yet to formally declare a governorship ambition, remarks attributed to him and discussions within his political circle suggest that consultations and strategic engagements have been ongoing in recent months.

“This step is about the future,” Arebuwa was quoted as saying during a recent political engagement. “It is about ensuring that our people are at the center of governance, that development is inclusive, and that leadership remains accountable.”

The renewed political activity has sparked optimism among his supporters, many of whom believe he may consider re-entering the governorship race in the next electoral cycle.

Observers say another factor fueling speculation is the possibility that the politician could consider a change of party platform. Arebuwa previously contested for the governorship ticket under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2024 election.

Although he did not secure the party’s nomination at the time, his campaign reportedly helped establish a network of supporters across several local government areas of Ondo State.

Sources within the state’s political circles suggest that ongoing consultations may include evaluating potential political platforms that could better position him for future participation in the governorship race.

Political analysts believe that if such a party switch eventually occurs, it could influence political alignments within the state due to his existing grassroots support and growing recognition among young voters.

Arebuwa first gained statewide political prominence during his earlier governorship bid, where he campaigned on a reform-driven agenda centered on economic revitalization, youth empowerment and institutional accountability.

Beyond electoral politics, he has remained visible in civic and community initiatives across parts of Ondo State. Community leaders say his philanthropic engagements have included educational support programmes, youth empowerment initiatives and assistance to vulnerable residents.

Some observers argue that these interventions have helped sustain his political relevance even outside active campaign periods.

“Politicians who maintain grassroots engagement often retain strong political capital,” a political analyst in Akure said. “Any move by a figure with statewide recognition can reshape alliances and influence voter mobilization ahead of elections.”

Within Arebuwa’s support base, the anticipated political move is being interpreted as a signal for renewed mobilization. Supporters say they are prepared to resume grassroots engagements should he formally announce his next political step.

However, some party stakeholders have urged caution, noting that political realignments often involve complex negotiations and internal party dynamics.

Reacting to the speculation during a recent interaction with members of his political team, Arebuwa explained that his reduced political activities after the last election were deliberate.

“I needed to further know the mind of the Lord concerning my political vision, reassess my convictions, and take time to re-strategize my approach to the mindset of our people after seeing firsthand the factors that define political behaviour, from party delegates to voters during electioneering seasons,” he said.

He added that public interest must always take precedence over personal ambition.

“The journey continues,” Arebuwa told supporters. “Our collective interest must always outweigh personal ambition.”

With political activities gradually gaining momentum across Ondo State, attention now turns to whether Arebuwa will formally declare his intention to contest the governorship again or possibly unveil a new political platform.

Political observers say more clarity may emerge in the coming weeks as consultations continue and the state’s political landscape begins to take shape ahead of the next election season.