Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun speaks on defection rumours

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has debunked widespread rumours suggesting he is set to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his loyalty to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

In a statement issued Saturday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor described the defection claims as false, unfounded, and politically motivated, urging the public to disregard what he described as fake news.

“I assure the good people of Osun that I remain part and parcel of the PDP family. I am not defecting to any party,” Governor Adeleke said.

He reiterated his commitment to implementing his administration’s five-point agenda, promising to intensify efforts in delivering good governance and democratic dividends to the people of Osun State.

Governor Adeleke’s political career has been one of twists and turns. He entered politics in 2017, shortly after the death of his brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, Osun State’s first civilian governor.

At the time, Ademola Adeleke defected from the APC to the PDP to contest and eventually win the Osun West Senatorial bye-election, succeeding his late brother in the Senate.

In 2018, he contested for governor under the PDP but lost to Gboyega Oyetola of the APC in a controversial election marred by vote suppression and irregularities allegations.

Undeterred, Mr Adeleke launched another gubernatorial bid in 2022. This time, he defeated incumbent Governor Oyetola in a tightly contested race, riding on popular support, particularly among youths and grassroots voters.

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Governor Adeleke’s latest denial comes as political tension builds ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, in which he is widely expected to seek re-election. His performance in office and loyalty to the PDP will likely shape both internal party dynamics and his poll prospects.

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Party insiders and analysts say the recent rumour of defection may be part of efforts to destabilise the PDP in the state or sow disunity ahead of party primaries.

Governor Adeleke said he remains committed to the PDP’s values and to fulfilling his electoral promises.

“My commitment is to the good governance of Osun State and the continued delivery of democratic dividends to our people,” he said.

He called on citizens to remain focused and avoid distractions, noting that his administration is determined to sustain developmental gains across all sectors.