Osogbo, Nigeria – Tensions are rising in Osun State ahead of the 2026 governorship election as the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clashed on Monday over calls to remove Governor Ademola Adeleke from office.
The NNPP, in a strongly worded statement signed by its state chairman, Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, accused Governor Adeleke of poor leadership and self-serving governance. According to Odeyemi, the state deserves more competent and visionary leadership.
“Osun deserves better than the present governor,” Odeyemi stated. “We need a leader with deep understanding of governance—someone who can rise above political interests and prioritize the needs of the people.”
He further called on opposition parties to unite in presenting a strong candidate to challenge the PDP in the upcoming election, warning that failure to do so would hinder the state’s development.
In a swift rebuttal, the PDP dismissed Odeyemi’s remarks as baseless and politically motivated. In a statement signed by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Oladele Bamiji, the PDP argued that Governor Adeleke’s record in office clearly speaks for itself.
The statement listed numerous achievements of the Adeleke administration, including:
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Completion of over 200 kilometres of road projects, including Osun’s first-ever flyover in Ile-Ife
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Construction of a dual carriageway and two flyovers in Osogbo to ease traffic congestion
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Settlement of salary arrears owed to state workers, amounting to several billions of naira
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Implementation of a free health insurance scheme for pensioners and persons with disabilities
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Rehabilitation and equipping of over 200 primary health centres across the state
“If Odeyemi cannot recognize these achievements, then he is clearly blinded by political bitterness,” the PDP stated.
The ruling party reaffirmed its confidence in Governor Adeleke’s popularity and performance, assuring residents that he remains focused on delivering meaningful governance despite political distractions.
With the 2026 elections drawing nearer, the political showdown between the PDP and NNPP appears to be intensifying, as both parties position themselves for the battle over Osun State’s leadership.
