The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has stated unequivocally that it rejected Governor Ademola Adeleke‘s alleged attempt to join its ranks, describing him as a political liability. This revelation comes as political activities intensify in the build-up to the 2026 gubernatorial and 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, APC State Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, dismissed rumours of Governor Adeleke’s defection attempt, asserting that the governor was not welcomed because of the baggage he allegedly brings with him.
“Governor Ademola Adeleke was rejected because he was quickly identified as a Trojan horse — a major liability and burden that could compromise the integrity and principles of the APC,” Lawal declared.
He further claimed that Governor Adeleke’s interest in the APC was driven by fears of an imminent defeat in the 2026 elections. According to Lawal, the Osun public, whom he described as politically discerning, were aware that Adeleke’s motive was to seek political refuge in the APC in order to salvage his career.
“The people of Osun State are politically enlightened. They understand that Adeleke’s sudden interest in the APC stems from his desperation to avoid electoral defeat in 2026. He sought asylum in our party, but we were not deceived,” Lawal said.
Lawal also criticised the current state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun, claiming that the party has degenerated into a discredited and morally bankrupt organisation.
“Since 2023, the PDP in Osun has gradually deteriorated, becoming a personal conquest of the Adeleke dynasty. Decent and forward-thinking politicians who once believed in the party’s ideals are leaving in droves, unable to endure the deceit, misgovernance, and corruption that define the Adeleke-led administration. What remains in the PDP today are remnants — a fragmented structure incapable of winning future elections,” he stated.
He went further to dismiss the PDP’s continued claims of popularity in the state as unfounded and delusional. “The PDP’s claim of being the most popular party in Osun is nothing but a hollow boast. There’s no evidence to support it; it is mere self-deception,” he said.
In a swift response, the Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through its Chairman, Sunday Bisi, dismissed the APC’s claims and reaffirmed the party’s focus on delivering good governance to the people.
Bisi denied allegations that the PDP was planning to rig the upcoming elections, stating that the party is committed to a free and fair democratic process.
“We are not in the business of importing fake voters or plotting to rig the 2026 elections as being falsely alleged by the opposition. Our focus remains on the people, and our confidence lies in our performance,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements of the current administration, the PDP chairman said the people of Osun State will vote based on records and delivery of service, not propaganda.
“We’re not going to trade words with the opposition. Governor Adeleke’s accomplishments in office are clear, and we are confident that the people will reward him with another term in 2026. Our performance speaks louder than their accusations,” Bisi asserted.
He further emphasised that the PDP remains a solid and united party in Osun State. “Governor Adeleke enjoys overwhelming support across the state, and our grassroots strength ensures he will secure a decisive victory at the polls.”
In an interesting political twist, the Osun State PDP leadership caucus officially endorsed Governor Adeleke for a second term in the 2026 governorship race. In the same breath, the caucus also declared its support for the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC in the 2027 general elections — a move that signals a rare bipartisan endorsement.
This dual endorsement is being interpreted by analysts as a strategic alignment designed to consolidate political strength across party lines while reflecting the fluid nature of Nigeria’s political landscape.