The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has firmly denied rumors that Governor Ademola Adeleke is welcome to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
During a press conference held in Osogbo on Wednesday, Timothy Owoeye, the immediate past Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, categorically stated that the APC's governorship ticket is not available for purchase by the Adeleke family.
"APC ticket is not for sale for the Adeleke family categorically. As a matter of fact, as of today, we don't see Governor Ademola Adeleke as part of the APC," Owoeye declared.
Fear Driving Defection Rumors
Owoeye suggested that Governor Adeleke's rumored interest in joining the APC stems from political insecurity, stating, "The APC in Osun State remains the party to beat. I want to tell you that if not because of the fear of unknown disturbing the Adeleke's and PDP, they won't show the intention of coming to the APC."
The APC chieftain expressed confidence in his party's standing in Osun State, claiming that the PDP's electoral victories were due to alleged irregularities rather than genuine popularity.
"APC is fully on ground in Osun. If not for brigandage after the 2022 governorship and 2023 general elections, PDP will not have their way in Osun State," he asserted.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Looking toward the next gubernatorial election, Owoeye made a bold prediction: "The tenure of PDP is already terminated in Osun State. Come August 8, 2026, we will chase them away. There is no space for PDP and Adeleke in the APC."
This statement comes amid growing political tensions in Osun State as parties begin positioning themselves for the 2026 gubernatorial race, with the APC clearly signaling its intention to reclaim the governorship position it lost in 2022.