Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has explained his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party for the Accord Party, saying the move was driven by the need to protect his personal safety and ensure stability in the state.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Adeleke insisted he still holds the PDP in high regard but chose to prioritise the continuity of his administration’s achievements.
“It’s not true that I abandoned the PDP. I love the PDP, but I have to protect myself and my state so we can sustain the progress we’ve started,” he said.
Adeleke formally resigned from the PDP on Tuesday and joined the Accord Party, where he secured the party’s governorship ticket the following day. He is now set to face candidates from the APC, PDP, and an ADC-led coalition in what is expected to be a defining contest for his political career.
Addressing concerns that running under a smaller party could affect his chances in the 2026 governorship election, Adeleke expressed confidence that his performance in office not party labels would determine the outcome.
He argued that Osun residents “are wiser” and able to distinguish between good and bad governance, noting that the election would be shaped by candidates and their records, not party popularity.
“Osun people know the difference. They’ve chosen the Imole path. When they compare my predecessor’s record with mine—especially issues like unpaid salaries—they know the impact of my leadership. I brought hope and light to the state; my work will speak for me,” he said.
Adeleke dismissed fears of “federal might,” recalling that he won the 2022 governorship election from the opposition and believes he can repeat that victory.
“I believe the president is a democrat. He’s been in the opposition before and held his ground. I was in opposition when I won last time, and it won’t be any different,” he added.
The governor maintained that the final decision rests with the people of Osun, expressing confidence that voters will return him to office because of his track record and their desire for continuity.
