By Rtn. Victor Ojelabi
As political winds gather ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State, one name is regaining attention; Senator Mudashiru Oyetunde Husain.
His entry into the political dynamics is not just another candidacy but a strategic mission to reclaim the state for progressive values and accountable leadership.
With a solid reputation built on service, trust, and developmental impact, Husain is prepared to challenge the incumbency of Governor Ademola Adeleke and restore people-focused governance in the state.
Born on October 25, 1955, in Ejigbo, Osun State, Senator Husain is a man of intellect and substance.
A polyglot fluent in English, French, Arabic, and Yoruba, he boasts impressive academic credentials including a Bachelor’s degree and Diploma in French from the University of Lagos and a Master’s in Legislative Studies from the Institute of Legislative Studies, Abuja.
But beyond education, his journey is defined by service and consistent loyalty to Nigeria’s progressive political movement.
A progressive from the start
Senator Husain’s political ideology was shaped abroad during his time in the United States, where he was an active participant in the Democratic Party during the Clinton administration.
Inspired by democratic values and the 1993 campaign of Chief MKO Abiola under the Social Democratic Party, he returned to Nigeria and joined the Alliance for Democracy (AD).
Through the political evolution that followed—Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and now the All Progressives Congress (APC); Husain has never wavered in his commitment to progressive ideals.
“I have been in the progressive party because they have the people’s mandate at heart,” he affirms.
Proven legislative track record
His legislative career began in 1999 when he was elected to the House of Representatives, representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency in Lagos.
For eight years, he made his mark through bold advocacy in education, foreign affairs, and national development.
From 2011 to 2015, he represented Osun West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate. There, his leadership style focused on direct community impact. His legacy is visible in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and legislative action.
He connected 30 large-capacity transformers across 10 local government areas, installed 200+ solar-powered streetlights, constructed equipped classrooms, and built over 30 boreholes to combat water scarcity.
Hundreds of youths received training and empowerment tools, and he personally facilitated employment for constituents in federal agencies.
His sponsored bills and motions also show a keen legislative eye.
These include the Gender Equality Bill, a bill on the state of national sports facilities, and a motion addressing reckless truck driving.
A builder of communities
After his senatorial term, Husain continued national service as the Federal Commissioner for Osun State at the National Population Commission (NPC) from 2018 to 2023.
In this capacity, he led enumeration and census planning efforts that engaged nearly 3,000 Osun youths. His tenure at the NPC was marked by administrative excellence and youth inclusion.
Throughout his political career, Husain has maintained strong ties with his constituents.
From funding WAEC and JAMB forms to appointing 37 personal aides to support engagement, he embodies accessibility and compassion in leadership.
Recognition and public trust
Senator Husain’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. His awards include RATTAWU Leadership Merit Award, Oshodi-Isolo Education Foundation Meritorious Award, NAOSS Advocate of the Masses Award and Golden Merit Award in Education Development.
These recognitions reflect years of service to both urban and rural communities across Osun and Lagos states.
Eyes on the governorship
Senator Husain’s decision to challenge Governor Ademola Adeleke is anchored in a conviction that Osun deserves better.
He believes the state needs a leader who not only understands the terrain but has the integrity, experience, and capacity to deliver meaningful change.
“To understand Senator Husain is to know a man who listens deeply, serves humbly, and leads passionately,” say supporters across Osun West.
With his grassroots foundation, pan-Nigerian political outlook, and a résumé built on results, Senator Mudashiru Husain offers Osun voters more than just promises; he offers a credible path to prosperity and dignity in governance.
As 2026 draws near, Senator Mudashiru Husain’s bold return has shifted political focus in Osun.
His challenge to Adeleke is backed not by sentiment but by substance; his record, relationships, and relevance.
If Osun seeks tested leadership, it may well find its answer in the man whose life has been defined by one word: service.
