By Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee
The city of Osogbo witnessed a massive political gathering as thousands of supporters flooded Freedom Park for the official flag-off of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election campaign under the Imole Campaign Council ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
The Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee of the Imole Campaign Council described the turnout as a clear demonstration of public confidence in Governor Adeleke’s administration and its people-oriented policies.
Supporters from across the 30 local government areas arrived from the early hours, turning Freedom Park into a sea of white and green. The atmosphere was charged, with traditional drummers, cultural groups, women associations, youth organizations, artisans, and market leaders all showing support for the governor.
The highlight of the event was the defection of thousands of members from opposition parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and other political groups, who formally joined Accord. The defectors cited Governor Adeleke’s performance, inclusive leadership, and developmental achievements as their reasons for aligning with the Imole movement.
Speaking through its Chairman, Hon. Babarinde Funmiso, the Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee of the Imole Campaign Council highlighted the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, workers’ welfare, and pension reforms.
“This gathering is more than a campaign flag-off. It is a loud endorsement of Governor Adeleke’s transformative leadership. The people of Osun are saying clearly that the Imole agenda is working and deserves continuity,” he said.
Several political leaders, community elders, and stakeholders also endorsed Governor Adeleke’s re-election bid, describing him as an accessible leader committed to inclusive governance.
Addressing the crowd, Governor Adeleke expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and assured residents of his administration’s commitment to delivering more dividends of democracy. He urged political actors and supporters to maintain peace and focus on issues throughout the campaign period.
The Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee of the Imole Campaign Council called on residents, civil society organizations, and all well-meaning citizens to continue supporting the Imole agenda, noting that the turnout and mass defections have set the stage for what it described as a decisive victory for Governor Ademola Adeleke in the forthcoming election.
Signed:
Media Unit,
Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee of the Imole Campaign Council.