Tensions Rise in Osun as APC Rejects Adeleke Amid Defection Rumors

Political tension in Osun State escalated on Wednesday following a sharp exchange between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over speculations surrounding Governor Ademola Adeleke’s political allegiance.

The controversy stems from a recent high-profile visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos by Governor Adeleke, his brother and business mogul Dr. Deji Adeleke, and his nephew, music star Davido. Photos from the meeting triggered widespread speculation of Adeleke’s potential defection to the ruling APC.

Reacting swiftly, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and APC chieftain, Timothy Owoeye, dismissed any notion of Adeleke joining the party, insisting there is no room for him.

“We are not offering any space to Governor Adeleke in our party,” Owoeye said. “APC’s ticket is not for sale, and we do not consider him one of us. The APC remains the dominant political force in Osun.”

He alleged that the PDP is gripped by anxiety over its future, predicting an end to the Adeleke-led administration by August 2026.

In a fiery rebuttal, PDP spokesperson in Osun, Oladele Bamiji, accused the APC of arrogance and desperation, describing their reaction as politically immature.

“It’s unfortunate that Osun APC views a simple meeting between two political leaders as an act of betrayal. In a democracy, dialogue across party lines is not only normal but necessary,” Bamiji said.

He further criticized the APC’s perceived attempt to monopolize the President, saying, “Their definition of federal power seems to be using the presidency to frustrate Osun’s development.”

Governor Adeleke’s media aide, Olawale Rasheed, also weighed in, denying any defection plans and reaffirming Adeleke’s loyalty to the PDP.

“The Governor remains a committed leader of the PDP in Osun. The visit to President Tinubu was purely a courtesy call. Any insinuation of defection is baseless and unfounded,” Rasheed said.

As political calculations intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election, both parties appear set for a renewed rivalry, with the recent encounter merely igniting what could be a heated contest in the months ahead.