Political Tensions in Osun State Escalate
The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has made a bold accusation against Governor Ademola Adeleke, claiming that he is reaching out to former governor Rauf Aregbesola and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as part of an alleged strategy to secure a platform for the 2026 governorship election. This development has sparked significant debate within the political landscape of the state.
In a statement released on Thursday, signed by its chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, the APC highlighted what it describes as “hobnobbing” between Adeleke and Aregbesola, who currently serves as the National Secretary of the ADC. The opposition party suggests that these interactions are aimed at supporting Adeleke’s bid for a second term, especially amid growing tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the national level.
The APC claims that with uncertainty surrounding his re-election prospects under the PDP, Adeleke has turned to the very political figure he allegedly criticized in recent months. According to the statement, Adeleke had previously sought to join the APC but was rejected due to his perceived failure in office. The party argued that his poor public rating could potentially harm the APC’s reputation and erode public confidence in the party’s progressive brand.
It is also noted that Adeleke reportedly used harsh language to describe Aregbesola just four months ago, calling him names such as “unprintable,” “pension eater,” “debt lover,” and “smelling shrew.” The APC finds it perplexing that Adeleke would now view Aregbesola as a political savior, given the legal challenges facing the PDP at the national level.
The APC further emphasized the lack of integrity in Adeleke’s actions, suggesting that he is now seeking favor from someone he once disparaged. The party urged residents of Osun State to reject Adeleke at the polls for betraying their mandate.
However, the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, swiftly denied the APC’s allegations, calling them false and politically motivated. In a statement, Rasheed claimed that the report was fabricated and dismissed the opposition’s assertions as fake news. He emphasized that Governor Adeleke is not negotiating with Aregbesola regarding the ADC and is not joining the party. The spokesperson also encouraged the public to ignore the “fake news from the pit of hell.”
Adeleke’s alleged moves come at a time when the PDP is dealing with internal leadership disputes. Despite scheduling a national convention for November 15 in Ibadan to elect new leaders, a rival faction has insisted that the convention will not take place. This situation adds to the complexity of the political environment in Osun State.
With the August 8, 2026 governorship poll approaching, the Independent National Electoral Commission has directed political parties in Osun to conduct primaries between November 24 and December 15, 2025, in accordance with Section 84 of the Electoral Act. Analysts suggest that unresolved nomination disputes at the national level could complicate Adeleke’s re-election bid.
As the political landscape in Osun State continues to evolve, the implications of these developments remain to be seen. The upcoming events will likely shape the future of governance in the state and influence the broader political dynamics in Nigeria.