The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, over his claim that the August 8, 2026 governorship election would be a “penalty without a goalkeeper.”

In a statement on Monday, the ADC described the remark as an act of political arrogance and disrespect for the electorate, insisting that elections are serious democratic exercises determined by the will of the people, not personal assumptions of victory.

The party, through its Media and Publicity Directorate Chairman, Oluwaseun Abosede, used football analogies to caution against overconfidence, noting that even the best players can miss penalties and open goals. “When AMBO boasts of victory as if it were a penalty without a goalkeeper, he ignores history. An idea whose time has not come can never materialise, no matter how loudly it is proclaimed,” the statement read.

ADC also recalled the political experience of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, who, despite inheriting a robust political structure and institutional goodwill, failed to retain power in Osun State.

The opposition party further alleged that AMBO’s emergence as APC candidate was marred by internal manipulation and godfatherism, rather than a free and competitive primary election.

“The election will not be won by arrogance, godfatherism, or empty confidence. The people of Osun will vote carefully, consciously, and courageously. The so-called ‘penalty without a goalkeeper’ will be another historic miss,” the statement added.

Highlighting its candidate, Dr. Najeem Salaam, the ADC said he represents a credible alternative capable of mobilising popular support and delivering a political upset that could surprise both Osun State and the Nigerian polity.

The party urged residents to reject empty slogans and political boasting, appealing to voters to exercise their franchise wisely in the forthcoming election.