Political tension has heightened in Osun State following fresh speculation suggesting that Governor Ademola Adeleke may be planning to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The rumour, which has spread across major towns in the state, comes as both parties gear up for the 2026 governorship election.
However, the PDP and Governor Adeleke have firmly denied the claims, describing them as baseless, politically motivated, and an attempt to sow discord.
Speaking with Pressmen on Friday, PDP spokesperson in Osun State, Oladele Bamiji, dismissed the rumour as “mere street talk,” reiterating that Adeleke remains a loyal member of the party.
“I have debunked this information on many occasions. Governor Ademola Adeleke is not decamping to any political party,” Bamiji said. “He is not a small fry who would take such a major political decision in secret. As of today, he is still a proud member of the PDP.”
Bamiji added that Governor Adeleke had repeatedly reaffirmed his allegiance to the PDP and had no plans to defect to the APC or any other party.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has also dismissed the speculation, stating that Adeleke is neither being considered for membership nor is he welcome in the party.
Speaking during a media parley organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone B, in Osogbo on Wednesday, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, said there was no indication of defection.
“Adeleke is not joining our party. I know that as of today, decamping is not on the table,” Basiru said. “Although the APC is a beautiful bride for anyone who wants to join, I must state clearly that I am loyal to Mr President, and there are no talks of Adeleke joining us.”
The rumour intensified following a recent visit by Governor Adeleke, his elder brother Deji Adeleke, and popular musician David Adeleke (Davido) to President Bola Tinubu. Images from the meeting circulated widely on social media, fuelling claims that Adeleke’s defection to the APC was part of a political deal to secure a second term and support Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Reacting to the speculations, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, issued a statement on Thursday describing the claims as “false, unfounded, and politically motivated.”
“The governor has noted with concern the widespread rumour and wishes to reassure the public, his supporters and admirers that he remains a committed member of the PDP and its leader in Osun State,” Rasheed said.
Quoting the governor, Rasheed added: “I assure the good people of Osun that I remain part and parcel of the PDP family. I am not defecting to any party.”
He further stated that Governor Adeleke remains focused on implementing his administration’s five-point development agenda and would intensify efforts to deliver democratic dividends and good governance to the people of the state.
With the governorship election scheduled for August 8, 2026, political observers believe that such rumours may be aimed at causing division within the PDP or distracting the Adeleke administration.
Nonetheless, both the governor and party leadership have reaffirmed their unity and commitment to the party’s ideals.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate