A youth group operating under the name Osun Progressives Youth has issued a stern warning that Governor Ademola Adeleke's potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) would have disastrous electoral consequences for the opposition party in Osun State ahead of the 2026 and 2027 polls.
The group, which identifies as a faction within the Osun APC, cautioned that Adeleke's presence in the party would not only erode public trust but also lead to internal divisions. They argued that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state has consistently demonized APC leader Adegboyega Oyetola, making such a political realignment problematic.
In a statement released on Monday, the group's coordinator, Tunmise Ajiboye, explained: "Adeleke's presence will only bring bad luck to APC because he knows that he will be bitterly defeated by the candidate of our party in 2026 gubernatorial poll."
"The public are warming up to vote him out from Bola Ige House in 2026 because his administration is characterized with anti-progressive tendencies. Those who are propagating his plan of defection are only clever by half. They are comparing Osun State with Delta state," Ajiboye added.
The youth group rejected comparisons with recent political developments in Delta and Akwa-Ibom states, emphasizing Osun's different political landscape. "Do not compare Delta and Akwa-Ibom states who are predominantly PDP with Osun State who is predominantly progressive state. Statically, the APC doesn't have up to 30% in the presidential results of both Akwa-Ibom and Delta states results," the statement read.
"But in Osun State, APC scored 47.34% and PDP had 48.85%. Does that mean if Adeleke is allowed to come to the APC, APC votes will increase in 2027? In fact it may decrease, because many people will feel betrayed and dejected," Ajiboye concluded.
Osun Leaders of Thought Praise Adeleke's Visit to Tinubu
Meanwhile, a socio-political group, Osun Leaders of Thought, has commended Governor Adeleke for his recent visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a demonstration of political maturity and a step toward strengthening Southwest unity despite party differences.
In a statement signed by its press officer, Adekunle Adebayo, the group praised Adeleke's decision to visit Tinubu, who belongs to a different political party, calling it both commendable and necessary for fostering cross-party collaboration.
The group also applauded President Tinubu for his warm reception of the governor, saying it portrayed him as "a father to all, regardless of political affiliations."
"The visit shows that leadership must rise above partisanship. Osun remains a vital part of the Yoruba region, and cooperation between state and federal leaders should be encouraged," the statement read in part.
However, the group expressed concern over criticisms from some APC members who faulted the meeting between the two leaders. They specifically condemned comments made by former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye, who reportedly said, "the Osun APC ticket is not for sale" while reacting to the visit.
The Osun Leaders of Thought argued that such remarks were unnecessary and unprovoked, stating, "President Tinubu didn't make any political declaration or offer during the visit. His action was purely a show of leadership and open-mindedness."
The conflicting reactions highlight the complex political dynamics in Osun State as the 2026 gubernatorial elections approach, with speculation about potential party realignments continuing to generate debate among political stakeholders.
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