The former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Najeem Salaam has been declared the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2026 Osun State election.
The primary election, held on Monday in Osogbo, saw Salaam emerge unopposed as the sole aspirant. The exercise was conducted by the Osun ADC Governorship Primary Election Committee, chaired by Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba (also referred to as Emeka Nwajiuba in reports).
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Announcing the results, Nwajiuba stated that there were 535 delegates in total, comprising 482 from local government areas and wards, and 53 special delegates. Of these, 528 were accredited and cast votes. Eight votes were invalidated, leaving 520 valid votes, all of which went to Salaam.
“By the powers conferred on this panel by the constitution of the ADC, I hereby announce that the candidate-elect and flagbearer of the ADC for the Osun 2026 governorship election is Najeem Folasayo Salaam,” Nwajiuba declared.
In his acceptance speech, Salaam expressed deep gratitude, describing the mandate as one accepted “with a sense of responsibility, hope, and prayer” given the challenges ahead.
He positioned the ADC as a credible alternative, pledging to prioritise workers’ welfare, education, youth empowerment, security, and good governance
Salaam, a seasoned politician from Ejigbo, previously served as Speaker from 2011 to 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) before departing the party.
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His emergence adds to the evolving political landscape in Osun ahead of the 8 August 2026 poll, where major parties are finalising candidates.
The primary was observed by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ensuring compliance with electoral guidelines.
