The endorsement, announced in a communiqué after a stakeholders’ meeting, reaffirmed Adeleke’s commitment to remain in the PDP and confirmed him as the party’s sole governorship candidate for 2026.
Tensions flared in Osun State on Tuesday after Governor Ademola Adeleke and former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola joined other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027.
The endorsement, announced in a communiqué after a stakeholders’ meeting, reaffirmed Adeleke’s commitment to remain in the PDP and confirmed him as the party’s sole governorship candidate for 2026.
“The PDP in Osun State hereby adopts and endorses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in the 2027 presidential election,” the communiqué stated, citing Tinubu’s Osun roots.
Reacting, Osun ADC chairman Charles Omidiji criticised Adeleke’s decision, warning that “his refusal to join APC may not save him from defeat.”
He added, “Whatever happens, ADC will produce the next Osun governor.”
The communiqué cited hostility from APC members and loyalty among PDP faithful as reasons Adeleke rejected defection.