The political atmosphere in Osun State entered a new gear on Tuesday as Governor Ademola Adeleke, flanked by former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola and other influential figures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declared open support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
The announcement, contained in a communiqué issued after a high-level stakeholders’ meeting, also reaffirmed Adeleke’s commitment to the PDP, putting to rest widespread rumours of a planned defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) swiftly condemned the move, describing Adeleke’s stance as a sign of political confusion. In a strongly worded statement, the ADC said the governor’s support for Tinubu would not shield him from an electoral defeat in the next Osun governorship race.
“Adeleke cannot continue to dance on two stages,” the party said. “Osun voters will not be swayed by political theatrics or alliance games ahead of 2026.”
The communiqué, which was made public at the end of the PDP stakeholders’ meeting, confirmed Adeleke’s dual position, staying loyal to the PDP while supporting a rival party’s candidate for the presidency.