Osogbo stood still on Thursday as the Secretary to the Osun State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, led thousands of residents, party stakeholders, youths, women’s groups, artisans, and community leaders in a solidarity walk backing Governor Ademola Adeleke’s bid for a second term in the 2026 governorship election.
The colourful procession, tagged “Imole Walk for Continuity” drew an unprecedented crowd from across Osogbo and surrounding communities. Supporters marched from the Party House at Itaoloko through major streets to Jale Emi Junction, chanting songs of solidarity and waving banners with messages endorsing Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election.
The rally generated widespread excitement across the state capital, with residents lining the streets to witness what many described as a clear demonstration of the Governor’s deep-rooted popularity and the people’s confidence in his administration.
Participants at the walk attributed the massive turnout to purposeful and people-centred governance under Governor Ademola Adeleke since 2022. They highlighted tangible achievements across key sectors, noting that ongoing construction and rehabilitation of urban and rural roads have improved connectivity and economic activity, while renovation of public schools and provision of learning materials have strengthened the foundation for the state’s youth.
The revitalization of primary healthcare centers has also expanded access to medical services at the grassroots level, and the prompt payment of salaries and pensions alongside the clearing of inherited salary arrears has restored dignity to the public workforce. In addition, implementation of community-based projects and empowerment programmes targeting small businesses, women, and youths has reinforced development at the grassroots.
Addressing the crowd, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye said the overwhelming turnout reflected the people’s appreciation for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s leadership and developmental strides over the past three years. “This administration has restored hope to our people through policies that directly improve their daily lives. From infrastructure to social welfare, the impact is visible in every corner of Osun,” he stated.
He emphasized that the support witnessed during the walk was not just symbolic but a mandate for continuity, stressing that Osun residents are determined to sustain the administration’s progress beyond 2026.
Hon. Teslim Igbalaye also warned against attempts to reverse the gains of the current administration, saying supporters across the state remain united to ensure stability and would resist any return to what he described as “the era of hardship, unpaid salaries, and unpopular policies.”
He further noted that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s inclusive style of governance has won the confidence of residents across party lines, traditional institutions, religious groups, and civil society, and expressed confidence that the expanding grassroots support base would translate into a decisive victory at the polls in 2026.
Hon. Teslim Igbalaye called on party members and supporters to sustain the momentum by intensifying mobilization efforts at the ward and local government levels, ensuring that the message of continuity reaches every household in Osun.
The rally ended in an atmosphere of celebration, with supporters pledging renewed commitment to the re-election campaign and to the ideals of the Imole Movement.
Signed: Osogbo Media Accord Force (OAMF)
