By John Umeh
he wrote.
In a political twist that has stunned observers across the country, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and the Osun chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have thrown their weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in office. The endorsement, which came during a high-level stakeholders meeting in Osogbo, marks a significant departure from traditional party alignments and has sparked widespread debate within political circles.
Governor Adeleke, a prominent PDP figure and one of the few opposition governors in the South-West, praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, particularly highlighting his commitment to national unity, economic reforms, and infrastructural development. Adeleke described Tinubu as “a true son of the South-West who has demonstrated capacity in the face of adversity” and noted that the President’s ongoing reforms are gradually laying the foundation for a more stable and prosperous Nigeria.
“Politics aside, Nigeria needs continuity, stability, and a bold vision to move forward. President Tinubu may not have gotten everything right, but he’s showing determination, courage, and a sincere desire to turn the country around,” Adeleke stated during his address.
The Osun PDP leadership echoed Adeleke’s sentiments, citing Tinubu’s inclusive governance and recognition of Osun indigenes in federal appointments as reasons for their endorsement. They emphasized that the endorsement does not mean defection from the party but is a strategic alignment for the betterment of the state and the South-West as a whole.
Party stakeholders and political analysts have described the move as a rare show of political pragmatism in Nigeria’s often polarized landscape. Some see it as a signal of shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, while others interpret it as a bold gamble by Adeleke to secure better federal collaboration for Osun State.
The endorsement has stirred mixed reactions within the PDP at the national level. While some party leaders have condemned the action as a betrayal of party principles, others are calling for restraint and introspection, noting the need for broader party reforms and unity ahead of the next election cycle.
On the other hand, Tinubu’s camp has welcomed the support with open arms. A presidential aide described Adeleke’s move as “a testament to the President’s growing credibility across party lines,” adding that it reflects “a shared vision for national rebirth.”
As the 2027 elections approach, this unexpected alliance between Tinubu and a PDP stronghold could reshape political calculations—not only in the South-West but across the country. Whether this marks the beginning of a broader trend remains to be seen, but for now, Tinubu has scored a significant and symbolic political victory.
