Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has formally defected to the Accord Party, setting the stage for a high-stakes re-election battle after abandoning the crisis-ridden Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke made the announcement on Tuesday at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Osogbo, flanked by national and state leaders of the Accord Party, where he confirmed he had secretly joined the party over a month earlier.
The governor, who is seeking a second term in 2026, said he registered with the Thumb Up Party on 6 November following “weeks of consultation and deliberations with stakeholders and opinion leaders”.
“Stakeholders and residents of Osun State are aware of why we are taking this important decision,” Adeleke said. “We intend to pursue a second term in office on the platform of the Accord Party to complete ongoing delivery of good governance and democratic dividends, which have been applauded at home and abroad.”
He explained that Accord’s philosophy of welfarism aligned closely with his administration’s priorities, particularly its emphasis on citizens’ and workers’ welfare.
“I have been fascinated by the philosophy of this great party,” he added. “The focus on people’s welfare should always be at the heart of public leadership.”
Addressing Accord Party leaders present at the ceremony, Adeleke declared: “You are now part of us, as I am also now part of you. We are united in progress and good intentions for the good people of Osun State and Nigeria at large.”
He urged members to maintain a united front ahead of the August 2026 governorship election, promising inclusive leadership that accommodates all interests.
“Our party, Accord Party, is here to take over Osun governance and sustain the delivery of good governance in our dear state,” he said.
Adeleke described his tenure as one defined by a relentless commitment to welfare-driven governance, citing achievements in infrastructure and social services.
“Osun has never had it so good in governance and service delivery,” he declared.
“Today, we unveil the new platform for the good people of Osun State. From Osun West to Osun East to Osun Central, this is our party—our new platform for victory come August next year.”
The announcement comes just days after the governor formally quit the PDP, blaming persistent leadership turmoil at the party’s national level.
In a statement shared on his Instagram page, he confirmed submitting his resignation letter on 4 November to officials in Sagba Abogunde, Ward 2, Ede North Local Government.
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