Osun Election Aftermath: Adeleke's Triumph and Political Storms
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has secured re-election, denying any pre-election deal with the Presidency for his victory despite endorsing President Bola Tinubu. His win, by a significant margin against the APC candidate, was attributed to his performance, grassroots appeal, and strategic political dynamics. The election also saw controversy surrounding vote-buying, election violence, and the role of INEC technology.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State secured his re-election in the August 15 governorship election, which some reports refer to as the 2026 Osun governorship election. He dismissed claims of a political agreement with the Presidency to secure his victory in exchange for supporting President Bola Tinubu. Adeleke, through his spokesperson Olawale Rasheed, stated that his endorsement of President Tinubu was based on the best interests of Osun State, predating the governorship election and not part of any political arrangement. Rasheed also apologized for the governor's absence from an interview, explaining that Adeleke had lost his voice after two days of praise, worship, and a night vigil.
Adeleke's re-election campaign, which saw him contest under the Accord Party after winning his first term in 2022 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was a significant political shift. He polled 511,067 votes, defeating his main opponent, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who secured 444,815 votes. This victory extended his winning margin to 66,252 votes, a substantial increase from the 28,344 votes he won by in 2022 against Gboyega Oyetola. Adeleke won in 19 of the state’s 30 local government areas, while the APC candidate won in 11. The Athena Election Observatory (AEO) noted that both leading candidates increased their vote totals compared to 2022, yet Adeleke’s margin widened dramatically, highlighting increased voter mobilization and a larger electorate.
Several factors contributed to Governor Adeleke’s victory. His administration's performance in his first term was a key element, with residents assessing his record against previous administrations. He was credited with clearing inherited salary and pension arrears, improving workers' welfare, and undertaking significant infrastructure projects, including constructing or rehabilitating over 300 kilometers of roads, more than 200 primary healthcare centers, and over 150 public schools. His government also established the University of Ilesa and reduced the state's domestic and external debt, while increasing internally generated revenue. Labour unions publicly endorsed him for implementing the N75,000 minimum wage and clearing inherited liabilities.
Adeleke's grassroots appeal, characterized by his personal style, regular attendance at community events, and dancing, fostered a strong connection with residents. Despite criticisms from some Muslim groups regarding religious balance and accusations of being a