By John Umeh
Osun State witnessed a major political tremor this week as Governor Ademola Adeleke officially severed ties with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signalling a shift that could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 governorship race. The announcement, confirmed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, marks one of the most stunning defections in recent years—one fueled by deep internal crises and looming electoral deadlines.
Adeleke, fondly known as the “Dancing Governor” and politically revered as the Asiwaju of Ede, submitted his resignation letter on November 4 to PDP Ward 2 executives in Sagba Abogunde, Ede North. However, the news remained tightly guarded until now, as his camp weighed the political implications of leaving a party that brought him to power barely three years ago.
On Tuesday, during a live appearance on Rave FM’s political programme in Osogbo, Commissioner Alimi broke the silence—confirming the exit and teasing that Adeleke’s next political home will be publicly revealed on or before December 13.
“Long Overdue”: Why Adeleke Jumped Ship
Speaking with unusual candour, Alimi explained that Adeleke’s resignation was not an impulsive move but the product of prolonged uncertainty and factional battles that have plagued the PDP at the national level.
“The governor has formally resigned his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party,” he said.
“This was long overdue. The internal crisis is too deep, too distracting, and too dangerous with an election around the corner.”
The PDP’s widening cracks—ranging from disputes over national leadership to court battles involving competing factions—created what Alimi described as a “hostile and unpredictable terrain” for incumbents seeking nomination.
The real trigger, however, appears to be the tight INEC nomination deadline, which closes on December 15. According to Alimi, contesting under a factionalised PDP would leave Adeleke vulnerable to litigations from party rivals and opposition strategists eager to challenge his candidacy.
“It’s not even about defection; it’s about facing reality,” the commissioner emphasized.
“Had it not been for the crisis at the national level, there would have been no reason for Gov. Adeleke to leave.”
Playing Smart: APC’s Alleged Miscalculation
In a strongly-worded criticism, Alimi dismissed suggestions that the All Progressives Congress (APC) celebrated Adeleke’s exit, calling their public reactions “pretence and panic disguised as bravado.”
According to him, APC leaders had hoped Adeleke would stay within the troubled PDP, making it easier for them to challenge his candidacy on legal grounds.
“They thought he would be gullible enough to remain in PDP,” Alimi said.
“They were waiting to use the national leadership crisis to file cases, disqualify him, and distract him. But Adeleke is smarter. Every move they make, he’s steps ahead.”
He further suggested that some of the individuals fuelling the PDP crisis are “apologists for other political parties”—a veiled accusation implying sabotage from outside forces.
For the opposition, Adeleke’s clean break from the PDP disrupts months of political calculations and forces them to redefine their 2026 strategy.
Osun Awaits: What Party Will Adeleke Join?
While the commissioner remained tight-lipped, he confirmed that Adeleke and his inner circle are in the final stage of negotiations with several political platforms.
“As for where the governor is going,” Alimi said, “let’s take it one after the other. He has resigned now, but on or before December 12 or 13, everybody will know.”
The timing is strategic. By December 13, Adeleke must not only announce his new party but also begin the process of participating in its primary—ensuring he is properly nominated before the INEC window closes two days later.
Analysts believe Adeleke is weighing three primary options:
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A major opposition party, possibly aligned with strong national structures
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A rising third-force party eager to capitalise on his popularity
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A newly formed coalition platform supported by influential political blocs
Whatever he chooses, Adeleke remains one of Osun’s most politically marketable figures—drawing large crowds, commanding grassroots loyalty, and carrying cultural influence that few politicians in the state can rival.
Shockwaves Across Osun Politics
Adeleke’s exit has left the Osun PDP in a fragile state, with many members fearing an exodus of loyalists who see the governor as the party’s backbone. Some local leaders are already campaigning for calm, urging party supporters not to defect until the national body intervenes.
However, Alimi insists Adeleke’s resignation was entirely avoidable.
“Had the PDP not been fractionalised at the national level, there wouldn’t be any reason for him to leave,” he said regretfully.
Residents across Osun State, meanwhile, have expressed mixed feelings—ranging from anxiety to excitement. While some fear political instability, others believe Adeleke’s move could usher in a new era of political alliances and clearer leadership direction.
As the Clock Ticks Toward December 13…
Osun State is now bracing for a major announcement that could shape the next election cycle. With only days left before the governor officially declares his new political base, the atmosphere is electric, unpredictable, and charged with speculation.
What is certain is that Adeleke’s departure from the PDP has opened a new chapter—not only for him but for Osun politics as a whole.
His next move will determine alliances, reshape rivalries, and perhaps define the state’s political destiny for years to come.
