As someone who has watched Osun State’s political landscape with keen interest and yes, with more than a little admiration for what Governor Ademola Adeleke has achieved I can say this without hesitation: the storm is over, and the sun is shining brighter than ever on the path to 2026.
INEC’s recent declaration that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has no valid candidate for the August 8 governorship election isn’t just a procedural footnote; it’s a resounding vindication of foresight, courage, and plain common sense.
Let’s be brutally honest: the PDP at the national level had become a house divided against itself. The leadership crises, factional wars, and endless court battles turned what was once a formidable platform into a liability. Governor Adeleke, the man who danced his way into hearts across the state with his infectious energy and delivered tangible progress in infrastructure, workers’ welfare, education, and healthcare, found himself tethered to a sinking ship. When he made the bold decision to resign from the PDP and join the Accord Party late last year, critics called it desperation. Today, those same voices are eating their words.
In my view, that move was nothing short of masterful. Adeleke didn’t abandon ship out of weakness, he jumped to preserve the momentum of good governance. Staying in the PDP would have meant risking disqualification or endless legal battles that could have derailed Osun’s development agenda.
By switching to Accord, he ensured his name would appear on the ballot, unencumbered by the PDP’s chaos. And now, with INEC confirming that PDP and Labour Party are absent from the cleared list of 14 parties, the field has crystallized: it is Accord (Adeleke) versus APC and a handful of smaller contenders.
What makes this moment so satisfying is how it exposes the hypocrisy and scheming that have plagued our politics for too long. Certain elements—let’s call them what they are had banked on PDP disarray to create confusion, hoping to slip in unchallenged or capitalize on voter fatigue. They underestimated Adeleke’s popularity and his administration’s track record.
The governor’s “Imole” (light) brand isn’t just catchy sloganeering; it’s a reflection of the enlightenment he’s brought to governance prompt payment of salaries, road rehabilitations, youth empowerment, and a visible commitment to the people’s welfare. Osun residents know progress when they see it, and they’re not about to trade it for retrogression.
Even more telling is the groundswell of support crossing party lines. PDP lawmakers in the National and State Assemblies have publicly endorsed Adeleke, pledging to back his re-election under Accord. The party’s state structure has signaled alignment with him. This isn’t politics as usual; it’s a rare display of principle over partisanship. When elected representatives prioritize performance over party logos, you know something profound has shifted.
To the naysayers who still cling to the idea that Adeleke’s victory isn’t inevitable: wake up. The coast is clear because preparation met opportunity. Adeleke made the right choice at the right time. He protected his mandate, safeguarded Osun’s gains, and now stands as the clear frontrunner in a streamlined contest. The APC will fight hard, Bola Oyebamiji is no pushover, but they will face an incumbent with momentum, widespread goodwill, and a message of continuity that resonates deeply.
Campaigns are about to ignite, and the message is simple: the people of Osun should stay ready, Vote for the light that has already brightened your lives.
Vote massively for Ademole Adeleke’s for the second term and let the good work continues
E-signed: Hon. Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and A Better Judicial System
