Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has denied reports suggesting he is planning to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The governor, in a statement issued on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, described the speculation as “a calculated attempt” to create political confusion and insisted he remains committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke has faced persistent rumours about possible defections. At one point, he was linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC), with claims that he and some PDP leaders had considered backing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. He later said forces within the APC frustrated such plans, after which he restated his decision to remain in the PDP.
Fresh reports of a possible move to ADC surfaced recently, following disagreements within the PDP over its national leadership. But Adeleke’s camp has rejected the claims, stressing that his “preoccupation” is delivering governance in Osun and preparing the PDP for upcoming elections. His spokesperson added that the governor is “focused on galvanising the structures of the party for the ongoing voter registration” ahead of next year’s poll.
The PDP in Osun has suffered several defections in recent months. Lawmakers including Wole Oke, representing Oriade/Obokun in the House of Representatives, and Senators Adenigba Fadahunsi (Osun East) and Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), have joined the APC. Other state lawmakers such as Taofeek Ajilesoro and Olusanya Ominrin have also defected, citing a desire to align with President Tinubu.
Despite the wave of departures, Adeleke said he remains firmly within the PDP and urged supporters to disregard “misinformation” about his political future. He maintained that his priority is fulfilling his mandate to the people of Osun and securing a second term under the PDP banner.
