Tensions in Osun State’s political scene escalated on Thursday as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) exchanged sharp remarks over Governor Ademola Adeleke’s screening ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Governor Adeleke was screened at the PDP National Secretariat, Legacy House, Abuja, alongside other party aspirants. The exercise, held behind closed doors, was attended by top party officials, including South West Vice Chairman Kamarudeen Ajisafe, Osun PDP Chairman Sunday Bisi, Secretary to the State Government Teslim Igbalaye, and Commissioners Dr. B.T. Salami and Rev. Bunmi Jenyo.
Speaking to reporters after the screening, Adeleke expressed confidence that his administration’s performance had earned widespread public support and positioned him for re-election.
“We have delivered good governance to our people in Osun. Our records and popularity are unrivalled. So we are ready for victory come 2026. Election is about voters, and we know our people love us,” Adeleke said.
He also highlighted his trust in the Federal Government to ensure a credible electoral process and expressed faith in the will of the people.
However, the Osun State chapter of the APC dismissed the screening as a face-saving exercise, claiming it followed a failed attempt by Adeleke to defect to the opposition.
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In a statement by APC Director of Media and Information Kola Olabisi, the party accused Adeleke of running a shallow and mediocre administration, alleging that over ₦60 billion had been spent on the Governor’s Office in 35 months without hiring a single teacher. The APC also claimed that Adeleke’s government failed to adequately fund education, forcing tertiary institutions to hike fees, and defrauded 32,000 citizens under the guise of teacher recruitment.
The APC described Adeleke’s re-election bid as doomed, accusing him of misgovernance, misplaced priorities, and wastage of resources. The party also reiterated allegations that Adeleke attempted to defect to the APC but was rebuffed, calling the PDP screening a “kangaroo exercise” to save face.
“No political party under which he may contest next year’s election would save him from defeat. The people of Osun have already screened him out based on his record in office,” the statement read.
The APC declared its readiness to reclaim Osun in 2026, asserting that the election will be an opportunity for Adeleke and the PDP to lose, given the public perception of their governance.
