Adeleke Confirmed as Sole Accord Party Candidate for 2026 Osun Governorship Election

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Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has taken a significant political step after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and securing endorsement as the governorship candidate of the Accord Party for the 2026 Osun governorship election.

The development came shortly after the governor formally announced his departure from the PDP, citing persistent internal disputes and leadership challenges within the party’s national structure.

Delegates Back Adeleke’s Candidacy

During a gathering attended by party delegates from across the state, Adeleke received unanimous support to represent the Accord Party in the upcoming election.

About 150 delegates participated in the exercise, with representatives drawn evenly from the 30 local government areas in Osun State.

Their endorsement effectively positioned the governor as the party’s sole aspirant for the governorship race.

Screening Committee Confirms Eligibility

Before the endorsement was announced, the party’s screening committee had assessed Adeleke’s eligibility.

The committee chairman, Elder Ibe Thankgod, who also serves as the National Organising Secretary of the Accord Party, confirmed that the governor met all necessary requirements to participate in the party’s primary election.

As part of the formal process, Adeleke was issued a certificate confirming his clearance to contest under the party’s platform.

Adeleke Explains His Political Move

The governor’s decision to switch parties has drawn widespread attention within the state’s political circles.

According to Adeleke, the prolonged instability within the PDP influenced his choice to seek a new political platform ahead of the next election cycle.

Observers note that such defections are not unusual in Nigerian politics, especially when political actors believe their chances of securing nominations within their existing parties are uncertain.

Governor Expresses Confidence Ahead of Election

Following the announcement of his clearance, Adeleke addressed party members and supporters.

He expressed appreciation to the party leadership and the screening committee for approving his candidacy.

The governor also declared that he was prepared to contest both the party primary and the eventual governorship election.

He stated confidently that victory remained achievable, expressing optimism about the party’s chances in the upcoming contest.

Accord Party Signals New Political Strategy

For the Accord Party, Adeleke’s entry represents a major political boost.

The party, which has historically maintained a smaller national presence compared to larger platforms, now gains a sitting governor as its standard-bearer.

Political analysts suggest this development could reshape the dynamics of the Osun governorship race.

Commentary and Analysis

Adeleke’s move highlights a recurring trend in Nigerian politics where party defections reshape electoral landscapes ahead of major elections.

The decision to embrace a new political platform could be interpreted as both a strategic calculation and a response to internal tensions within the PDP.

With the governor now positioned as the Accord Party’s sole candidate, the focus will shift to how effectively the party can mobilize support across Osun State.

If Adeleke successfully transfers his political base to his new party, the 2026 governorship contest could become one of the most closely watched political battles in the state.