Dayo Israel, the National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has provided a candid assessment of the party's performance in the recent Osun State governorship election, attributing the loss to a failure to connect with the electorate. In a post shared on his official X handle, Israel emphasized that the APC underestimated the appeal of Governor Ademola Adeleke, often dismissed as the "Dancing Governor."

In his post titled, "Osun has spoken: The bitter truth APC must hear before 2027," Israel argued that Adeleke's perceived weaknesses, particularly his dancing, became a significant asset that allowed him to forge an emotional bond with voters. He stated, "For years, some members of the political elite have reduced Governor Adeleke to his dancing. That assessment has always underestimated both the man and the nature of Osun politics."

Israel pointed out that Osun's political landscape is deeply intertwined with its communities, traditions, and local culture, which cannot be fully understood through elite discussions or social media narratives. He asserted that Adeleke's dancing was not merely a frivolous act but a strategic political tool that made him relatable and accessible to ordinary citizens.

"Governor Adeleke’s dancing was never a weakness. It was a political language. It humanised him, made him accessible, and created emotional proximity with ordinary voters," he explained. Israel highlighted that successful politics encompasses more than just policies; it also involves emotions, identity, and a sense of belonging.

He criticized the APC's approach, noting that while some candidates may excel in elite discourse, they may fail to resonate with grassroots voters. He urged the party to reassess its strategies, stating, "Elections are not won by approval ratings in Abuja. They are won by understanding people as they are."

Furthermore, Israel raised concerns about the effectiveness of the national campaign council led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma. He questioned the council's composition, which he felt lacked genuine representation of young Nigerians who could inspire and mobilize voters.

He also pointed out the absence of structured oversight from the National Working Committee since the council's inauguration, labeling it a significant strategic weakness. "In any serious political organization, that absence of structured oversight is not a minor administrative gap. It is a strategic weakness," he stated.

Addressing the internal divisions within the APC in Osun, Israel lamented the lack of genuine efforts to reconcile aggrieved aspirants with the party's candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji. He emphasized that these internal conflicts pose a major challenge to the party's success.

As the APC looks towards the 2027 general elections, Israel called for a renewed focus on reconciliation and a reevaluation of strategies to better connect with voters. He urged party leaders to prioritize rebuilding respect for party institutions and fostering unity within the ranks.

"This is not a call for blame. It is a call for renewal. Silence will not win 2027. Osun has spoken. The APC must now listen," he concluded, underscoring the need for the party to learn from its recent experiences and adapt accordingly.