APC Refutes Rumours of Osun Governor Adeleke’s Defection

In a strong rebuttal to circulating political speculations, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has firmly denied claims that Governor Ademola Adeleke is planning to defect to its party. The APC, in a detailed press release signed by its state spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, on Sunday, dismissed the rumour as deliberate misinformation purportedly being disseminated by the governor’s administration.

The statement, filled with stern language and pointed allegations, described the defection story as a fabrication “from the pit of hell.” Olabisi emphasized that Governor Adeleke has neither joined nor considered joining the APC, and no discussions have occurred at any level of the party regarding his admission.

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Adeleke’s Alleged Defection: APC Clears the Air

According to the APC’s statement, there has never been any pressure from the Presidency on Governor Adeleke to defect. This claim challenges earlier insinuations from individuals close to the governor, who allegedly suggested that national forces were urging Adeleke’s move to the ruling party. The APC insisted such suggestions were completely false and strategically designed to mislead the public.

Olabisi underscored that the process of defection involves significant procedural and constitutional steps, none of which have been initiated. “It is impossible for a sitting governor to defect into our party without the knowledge and approval of key party figures,” the statement read, highlighting national chairman Ali Dalori, party elder statesman Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, state party chairman Tajudeen Lawal, and other prominent stakeholders as gatekeepers of such political realignments.

The APC accused the Adeleke administration of intentionally spreading the rumour to cause confusion and disaffection within the ranks of the opposition. The party labeled Adeleke’s team as “gatecrashers” who once maligned the APC but now, paradoxically, wish to associate with it.

“The same people who previously vilified our party are now fantasizing about joining it,” the statement read. “Our members must not fall for this orchestrated falsehood. The APC in Osun remains strong, united, and focused.”

The party also described the scenario of Adeleke’s defection as a “utopia”—an impossible dream—given the current political atmosphere and the governor’s ideological stance. The APC maintained that it remains a vibrant opposition party in Osun, one not open to sudden or strategic shifts that could compromise its integrity or unity.

Political Calculations or Distraction Tactics?

The timing of the rumour has raised eyebrows among political watchers, coming amid heightened intra-party and inter-party dynamics in Osun State. Some analysts believe the speculation could be a strategic distraction from current administrative challenges facing the state government. Others suggest it might be a trial balloon floated by political intermediaries to gauge public sentiment on a potential realignment ahead of future elections.

Regardless of the intent, the APC’s response has shut the door—at least for now—on the possibility of a political homecoming for Adeleke within the party he once contested against. The opposition emphasized that no welcome mat is being laid for the governor and reiterated that its leadership structure would never be bypassed or surprised by such a major political shift.

Olabisi concluded the statement by reaffirming the party’s commitment to transparency, discipline, and democratic ideals. He urged members and the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to trust only verified communications from party leadership.

In the ever-fluid landscape of Nigerian politics, rumours of defections are not uncommon. However, Osun APC’s categorical denial suggests that any such move by Governor Adeleke, if ever contemplated, would face not only constitutional hurdles but also deep internal resistance.