“I’m Not Leaving PDP”: Governor Adeleke Quashes Defection Rumours Amid Party Turmoil
Governor Adeleke Denies APC Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP
Amid swirling rumours of his possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has categorically denied any plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reaffirming his commitment to the party and its vision for Osun State.
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, Adeleke addressed public concerns, stating:
“I remain a loyal member and the leader of the People’s Democratic Party in Osun State. My focus remains on delivering good governance and fulfilling our 5-point agenda. Please disregard the fake news.”
Adeleke’s Clarification Amid Party Crisis
The governor’s statement comes at a turbulent time for the PDP, as several high-profile defections to the APC have rocked the opposition party. Just last month, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, along with their deputies and political allies, crossed over to the ruling party, citing the need for “state interest alignment.”
Even more shockingly, Ifeanyi Okowa, former Delta governor and Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 running mate, joined them—sparking speculation about a wider PDP collapse ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Why the Rumours Persisted
Adeleke’s recent private visit to President Bola Tinubu’s Ikoyi residence—alongside his brother, billionaire Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, and music superstar Davido—only added fuel to the speculation.
While some interpreted the visit as a political alignment gesture, insiders close to the governor insist it was a non-partisan courtesy call and not indicative of any political shift.
PDP Under Pressure
Governor Adeleke’s denial arrives amid a broader leadership crisis within the PDP. The ongoing tussle over who serves as the party’s National Secretary — between Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye — has deepened internal instability. Meanwhile, former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar is spearheading a coalition of opposition figures, including members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in preparation for a formidable challenge to the APC in 2027.
Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke
Why Adeleke’s Loyalty Matters
Adeleke’s reaffirmation of loyalty to the PDP is strategic and symbolic. As one of the few southern PDP governors left standing, his public commitment sends a strong message of continuity and internal resistance to political pressure.
His victory over APC candidate Gboyega Oyetola in the 2022 Osun governorship election further cements his credibility within the party—and his importance to PDP’s electoral future.
“I don’t need to switch parties to get things done. Osun deserves focused leadership, not political games,” Adeleke reportedly told party stakeholders earlier this year.
The Road Ahead
As Nigeria inches closer to 2027, all eyes will remain on PDP strongholds like Osun. With defections mounting and coalitions forming, Adeleke’s steadfastness may be the stabilizing anchor the party needs during this uncertain time.
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