Twenty-five members of the Osun State House of Assembly elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the Accord Party in a sweeping political realignment ahead of the August governorship election.
The lawmakers announced their defection on Friday, following the earlier move by Governor Ademola Adeleke, who left the PDP in December 2025 to join Accord. Adeleke has since been cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to contest the 15 August Osun governorship poll under his new party.
In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Olamide Tiamiyu, the legislators said their decision was reached during a parliamentary meeting. Following the meeting, they proceeded to the Banquet Hall to formally declare their defection in the presence of the governor and senior Accord Party leaders.
According to the statement, the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, made the official announcement on behalf of the group. The lawmakers reaffirmed their “unwavering support” for Governor Adeleke and pledged continued commitment to quality representation, transparency and responsive leadership.
“They further noted that their decision to join the governor’s party was aimed at ensuring continuity in governance and accelerating development for the people of Osun State,” the statement read in part.
Tiamiyu disclosed that the lawmakers had resigned from the PDP weeks earlier, explaining that their move followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations with supporters, political associates and key stakeholders”. He added that they were convinced Accord offers a more stable, inclusive and people-centred platform through which they can effectively serve their constituents.
The defecting members also urged their supporters and well-wishers to remain steadfast and join them in what they described as a new political chapter for the state.
With the defection of the 25 lawmakers — including the Speaker — the 26-member Assembly is now overwhelmingly controlled by Accord. Femi Popoola, elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), remains the sole opposition lawmaker in the House.
The development marks a significant consolidation of political power for Governor Adeleke as the state prepares for the forthcoming gubernatorial contest.
