The political atmosphere in Osun State is heating up as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a firm stance against Governor Ademola Adeleke, describing him as a “liability,” a “Trojan horse,” and someone carrying political baggage that the party could not accept.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, the Osun APC leadership alleged that Adeleke’s attempt to join the APC was driven by fear of losing the upcoming 2026 governorship election.
Adeleke Is a Big Baggage,” Says Osun APC
According to Kola Olabisi, Director of Media and Information for the party, APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal stated that Adeleke’s rumored defection attempt was intentionally blocked because the governor’s controversial leadership style and corruption allegations could damage the integrity of the party.
“Governor Ademola Adeleke was rejected because he was quickly identified as a Trojan horse, a big baggage and liability that would hurt the integrity of the APC,” Lawal stated.
The APC claims that Adeleke only considered switching sides due to his waning popularity and rising concern over electoral defeat in 2026.
“It was the fear of the impending 2026 election defeat that motivated the governor to desperately seek in our party an asylum for his political survival,” the statement read.
Osun PDP Called a “Leprous House” by APC
The attack didn’t end with Adeleke. The APC also took aim at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun, labeling it a “collapsing structure” overrun by opportunists.
“The Osun PDP has become a leprous house deserted by decent politicians,” APC alleged.
“It is now filled with political dregs and has no hope of winning future elections.”
PDP Responds: “We’re Focused on the People”
In response, the Osun PDP Chairman, Sunday Bisi, dismissed the APC’s claims, saying his party remains popular and focused on credible elections, not propaganda.
“Our party is focused on the people,” Bisi said.
“We are not seeking to import fake voters or rig elections like the opposition is plotting.”
He further stated that Osun people would choose performance over noise, noting that the PDP’s track record under Adeleke would earn their support again in 2026.
“Governor Adeleke will win Osun votes resoundingly in 2026. Our performance speaks for us,” Bisi added.
“We won’t join issues with those trying to distract us with baseless attacks.”
Amid the political back-and-forth, Governor Ademola Adeleke recently reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, shutting down rumors of an impending defection to APC.
Will the Osun electorate stick with Adeleke and the PDP? Or will the APC capitalize on public perception and reclaim the seat?
Time will tell.
