Osun governor reaffirms party loyalty after Tinubu visits spark speculation
Osogbo, Osun State – Governor Ademola Adeleke dismissed rumors about leaving the PDP for the All Progressives Congress. The Osun State governor issued a public statement after his recent meetings with President Bola Tinubu triggered defection speculation.
Governor Addresses Supporter Concerns
Adeleke received numerous calls from concerned supporters about the defection rumors. He used social media platform X to address the speculation directly.
“Over the last few hours, I have been inundated with calls regarding rumors of a possible defection,” Adeleke stated. He dismissed the claims as “fake news” and reaffirmed his position as both a loyal PDP member and the party’s leader in Osun State.
The governor’s quick response shows how seriously Nigerian politicians treat party loyalty questions. Defection rumors can damage political standing and require immediate clarification.
Presidential Meetings Spark Speculation
Adeleke’s recent visits to President Tinubu in Lagos and Abuja triggered the defection rumors. These meetings between an opposition governor and the sitting president raised questions among political observers.
The governor did not explain the purpose of his meetings with Tinubu. Instead, he focused on denying any plans to switch parties.
Similar speculation has affected other PDP governors who met with the president. Such meetings often fuel defection rumors in Nigerian politics, where party switches are common.
Focus Returns to Governance
Adeleke redirected attention to his administration’s work in Osun State. He emphasized his 5-point development plan as his primary focus.
“My focus remains on delivering good governance and fulfilling our 5-point agenda for Osun people,” he stated. The governor called for continued citizen support for his programs.
The 5-point agenda includes infrastructure development, education improvement, healthcare advancement, economic growth, and security enhancement. Adeleke has used this framework since taking office in 2022.
Political Impact on Osun
The defection rumors carry significant implications for Osun State politics. As the state’s highest-ranking PDP official, any move by Adeleke could affect other party leaders and supporters.
His denial helps stabilize PDP operations in a state where the party competes directly with the ruling APC. The clarification prevents confusion among supporters and maintains party unity.
The incident reflects broader concerns about party loyalty in Nigerian politics. Recent high-profile defections have made supporters sensitive to speculation about their leaders’ political future.
By Abdullah Korede
