Former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola has stated that the decision on which political platform incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke will adopt for his 2026 re-election bid will be made once the governor returns from a foreign trip.
Responding to rumours about potential parties Adeleke might join, Oyinlola described the Accord party as a reasonable option.
The ex-governor further revealed that any decision to defect with Adeleke to another party would depend on the party’s alignment with his political principles, suggesting he may not follow Adeleke if the choice does not reflect his beliefs.
Speaking on Osogbo-based private radio station Rave FM’s programme, Oro Oselu, monitored by Punch on Monday, Oyinlola noted he would not have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) had Adeleke proceeded with plans to join the party.
He added that ongoing crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the national level—likely to invalidate nomination processes—could prompt the governor to explore alternatives.
In Yoruba, Oyinlola said, when asked about options under consideration by Osun PDP stakeholders for Adeleke’s re-election: “There was a time we considered moving to the APC, but I informed them I know that party well and would not follow them there. My stance remains the same.
“The APC does not honour promises. As secretary of the New PDP during the formation of the APC, I received nothing for my efforts. My decision to move with Adeleke depends on the party we choose. If it’s a party I do not believe in, I will not join.
“If we were to opt for APGA, it would be a one-shot chance. The Accord party is a fair option. I know how the Accord party was formed and its founder, Olusegun Obasanjo. I was involved in the formation of the African Democratic Congress, but it did not meet expectations and has lingering issues, despite some prominent politicians there now.
“When the governor returns this week, we will deliberate and inform the people of Osun of our decision.”
Regarding crises afflicting the PDP and efforts by his committee to resolve disputes in a few state chapters, Oyinlola reported that disagreements in four out of six states had been settled.
On the nation’s state, Oyinlola expressed concerns over the faltering economy and security challenges. He questioned, “Has the economy improved under the Federal Government? Is food now sufficient for the masses? The insecurity is widespread. If governance was effective, why would Donald Trump threaten an invasion of Nigeria?
“What occurred in Nigeria last week was unacceptable and would warrant resignation in any other country. While not everyone will be content with Adeleke’s administration, the impact of the current government is unmistakable.”
Reports say Adeleke may quit the PDP to seek re-election, but has not yet revealed his chosen party.
The Punch reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set December 15, 2025, as the deadline for parties to submit candidates’ names for the August 8, 2026, Osun governorship election.
