Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has dismissed speculations that he intends to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or collaborate with members of the party ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
In a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke described the reports as unfounded and misleading, reiterating his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“Our attention has been drawn to news reports and media enquiries about the imminent defection of Governor Adeleke to the ADC or alignment with ADC big wigs ahead of the 2026 governorship race. There is no truth in those publications and speculations,” the statement read.
Rasheed stressed that the governor has no form of alliance with the ADC, whether direct or indirect, and will contest for a second term under the PDP platform.
“First of all, we, the PDP Osun, have already adopted and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, so there is no alliance with ADC.
“Secondly, Governor Adeleke has no alliance with anyone in ADC. He remains in PDP, will run in PDP, and needs no alliance with ADC to win with a wide margin in 2026,” he stated.
He attributed Adeleke’s growing popularity to his achievements in office, noting that the people of Osun are strongly behind him due to his commitment to good governance and developmental initiatives.
“The Osun electorate supports Governor Adeleke because of his impressive performance since he came to office. That good work is still ongoing, and Osun people are committed to sustaining the delivery of good governance by re-electing Governor Adeleke in 2026,” Rasheed said.
Adeleke urged PDP members and supporters across the state to remain steadfast and work towards strengthening party structures at all levels as preparations for next year’s election gather momentum.