Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has again dispelled rumours of a plan to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) , but this time, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor described the report as false and a deliberate attempt to create confusion within the state.
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“The report is not only untrue but a calculated attempt by those afraid of the governor’s soaring acceptability to create uncertainty in the minds of the people of Osun State,” the statement read.
Mr Rasheed stressed that Governor Adeleke remains firmly rooted in the PDP and has no intention of joining the ADC or any other party. He said the governor’s current focus is on governance and the delivery of dividends of democracy to residents of the state.
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The spokesperson also noted that Mr Adeleke and PDP leaders are concentrating on strengthening party structures ahead of the ongoing voter registration exercise in preparation for next year’s election.
“We want to reiterate for the umpteenth time that Governor Adeleke remains committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and has no plan whatsoever to join the ADC or any party for that matter.
“Governor Adeleke’s pre-occupation at the moment is the continued delivery of dividends of democracy to Osun people who resoundingly gave him their mandates three years ago,” Mr Rasheed said, adding that a series of unsolicited endorsements of the governor had unsettled political rivals.
The statement urged residents to disregard the defection rumours and called on Governor Adeleke’s supporters to remain focused on mobilising support for his re-election bid under the PDP.
“As a man of the people, Governor Adeleke recognises the overwhelming goodwill and confidence that Osun people have in the PDP and his leadership. His Excellency is not and will go against the will of the people,”Mr Rasheed added.
Rumoured defection
Like many political figures, Mr Adeleke has had to fend off recurring defection rumours, a trend that has intensified amid the heated political climate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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Earlier in July, Governor Adeleke assured his supporters that he had no intention to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as against speculations. He said the defection claims were unfounded, and politically motivated.
While some governors and lawmakers have indeed switched parties and forged new alliances, the rumour mill continues to churn.
In April, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), taking with him his deputy, Monday Onyeme, and the entire cabinet.
His predecessor, former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who served as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election, also crossed over to the APC .
