Ademola Adeleke Insists Osun Voters Will Choose Performance Over Party in 2026

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has brushed aside concerns about facing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2026 governorship election, declaring that he has already overcome “federal might” once and is ready to do it again.

In a recent interview, Adeleke explained that his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Accord Party was driven by a need to safeguard both his personal safety and the ility of Osun State. He emphasized that while he still respects the PDP, he chose a platform that would ensure continuity for his administration’s development agenda.

“It’s not true that I abandoned PDP. I love PDP, but I have to protect myself. I have to make sure I protect my state because of the good work we’ve been doing so that we can continue,” he said.

Adeleke officially joined the Accord Party on Tuesday and secured its governorship ticket the following day. He is now set to contest against candidates from the APC, PDP, and a coalition under the African Democratic Party in what is shaping up to be a closely watched 2026 race.

The governor expressed confidence that Osun voters will prioritize leadership performance over party affiliation.

“Osun people are wiser. They know the difference between good governance and bad governance, and they have decided to toe the Imole path; it is me they are talking about. We are not even talking about parties right now; the party is just the platform,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Adeleke pointed to his administration’s achievements, contrasting them with the struggles of past governments.

“I came in, I brought hope, I brought light to Osun State. So, my records, first of all, will speak for themselves,” he added.

On the possibility of facing federal pressure from the APC-led government, Adeleke was unfazed. He recalled his previous victory while in the opposition and drew parallels with President Bola Tinubu’s own political journey.

“I beat federal might before and I’ll do it again,” he said. “Our president is a democrat. He’s been in this position before. When he was in opposition, I learned a lot from him, too. He stood his ground and he still won. So why can’t I do that?”

Adeleke concluded by reaffirming his belief that the people of Osun will decide the outcome of the 2026 election based on his track record and their desire for continued progress.