Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has debunked claims that he abandoned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for personal gain, insisting that unresolved internal crises within the party compelled him to seek a more stable political platform.
Adeleke, who is now the Accord Party’s certified candidate for the August 2026 governorship election, said he remains emotionally connected to the PDP but could no longer ignore the deepening turmoil threatening both his administration and his re-election bid.
“I love the PDP,” he said. “But with all the crises going on — you know these crises — I did my best, I tried, but everything seemed to fall apart every day. As a reasonable person, I had to make a decision and ask myself, ‘Where do I go from here?’”
He explained that his move to Accord Party was not an act of betrayal, but a necessary step to protect the mandate of Osun people and preserve the progress recorded under his administration.
“That is why I decided to join the Accord Party. It’s not true that I abandoned the PDP. I love the PDP, but I had to protect myself and protect my state because of the good work we’ve been doing — and to ensure we can continue,” he added.
Adeleke also expressed confidence that party labels would play a minimal role in the 2026 election, arguing that Osun voters will prioritize character, competence, and performance over political affiliation. According to him, his administration’s achievements will speak louder than party identity.
The governor revealed that he quietly joined the Accord Party over a month ago — precisely on November 6, 2025 — after extensive consultations with stakeholders, political allies, and community leaders. The move was made public on Tuesday.
Barely 24 hours later, the Accord Party officially confirmed him as its governorship candidate for the 2026 election.
The Chairman of the Screening Committee and National Organising Secretary of the party, Ibe ThankGod, announced that Adeleke met all screening requirements and emerged as the party’s sole candidate.
With his defection now formalized, Adeleke is poised to test his popularity and record of governance in what promises to be one of Osun State’s most closely watched governorship races.
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