Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has firmly denied recent reports suggesting he plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke described the claims as false and misleading, attributing them to political opponents seeking to create confusion and undermine his growing popularity in the state.
“Governor Adeleke remains a committed member of the PDP and has no intention of joining ADC or any other party,” the statement read.
According to Rasheed, the Governor’s current priority is not politics, but delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Osun, who entrusted him with their mandate three years ago.
“This rumour is a calculated attempt by those intimidated by the Governor’s rising public acceptance to distract the people and derail ongoing efforts,” Rasheed added.
The Governor and PDP leadership in Osun, the statement noted, are focused on strengthening party structures and mobilizing voters for the ongoing voter registration exercise, ahead of the 2026 polls.
“Governor Adeleke is fully focused on preparing the PDP for victory. His re-election bid will be under the PDP, with the strong support of the people of Osun,” Rasheed emphasized.
The statement also addressed the wave of unsolicited endorsements Adeleke has received in recent weeks, which it said has unsettled his critics.
“Those spreading fake reports are trying to capitalize on the Governor’s goodwill among Osun people. But the public should ignore these distractions.”
Governor Adeleke urged his supporters to disregard the defection rumours and stay focused on the task ahead.
“As a leader of the people, Governor Adeleke acknowledges the confidence Osun citizens have in both his leadership and the PDP. He will never act against their will,” the statement concluded.
