Former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has categorically ruled out any possibility of his political group forming alliances ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

Speaking during a reception organized by the Omoluabi Progressives in Osogbo on Sunday to mark his 68th birthday, Aregbesola expressed confidence in his group's ability to independently contest and win the upcoming election.

"By this time next year, we will all be close to Abere (Osun Governor's Office). May God make it so," Aregbesola stated, displaying optimism about their electoral prospects.

The former Minister of Interior firmly dismissed rumors of potential coalitions with other political actors or factions in the state. "People are having untrue impression that we will align with anyone. We are not going to align with anyone. We are going to pursue our political interests separately," he declared.

Aregbesola further emphasized his group's determination, stating, "No alliance with anyone or group. By the grace of God, this group will win. We will contest and we will win."

During the celebration, the former governor also took a moment to reflect on the personal significance of birthdays, encouraging attendees to honor their mothers. "Whenever you are celebrating birthday, during the celebration, always remember to pray for your mother. The pains they endure during childbirth is enormous," he said.

Moshood Adeoti, who served as Secretary to the Osun State Government during Aregbesola's administration, urged members of the Omoluabi Progressives to remain steadfast in upholding the group's principles.

Representing the current Osun State Governor at the event, Biyi Odunlade praised Aregbesola for his contributions to governance in the state. "I celebrate you because you left a good template for good governance in Osun State that cannot be faulted by anybody," Odunlade remarked.

"Your legacy of service is exemplary and remarkable, one that stands you out among your contemporaries," he added.

The Omoluabi Progressives is a political organization founded by Aregbesola following his tenure as governor of Osun State, and appears poised to be a significant contender in the state's upcoming gubernatorial race.