The All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified efforts to reclaim Osun State following the defection of Governor Ademola Adeleke from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a development that has significantly altered the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

Adeleke’s defection, announced late Tuesday, sent shockwaves through Osun politics, effectively weakening the PDP’s structure in the state while opening a fresh contest for dominance between the APC and other emerging opposition forces. Party insiders say the APC leadership views the move as a strategic opportunity to regain control of a state it lost in the 2022 governorship election.

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In a statement issued by the Osun APC Chairman, the party described Adeleke’s exit from the PDP as “the final collapse of a divided and directionless opposition,” adding that the ruling party at the federal level is now better positioned to “rescue Osun from years of political uncertainty.”

“The defection has vindicated our long-held position that the PDP in Osun was built on fragile alliances and personal interests,” the statement read. “APC is re-energised, united, and ready to reclaim the mandate of the people.”

Sources within the APC disclosed that high-level reconciliation meetings are already underway to mend internal rifts that plagued the party after the 2022 defeat. Former governor Adegboyega Oyetola, key party leaders, and influential grassroots mobilisers are reportedly coordinating efforts to consolidate party structures across the state’s 30 local government areas.

The APC is also said to be reaching out to aggrieved PDP members and neutral political blocs, aiming to capitalise on the uncertainty triggered by Adeleke’s defection. Party strategists believe that the governor’s exit has demoralised PDP loyalists, many of whom may now seek a new political home.

Meanwhile, reactions within the PDP have been swift and angry. State PDP leaders accused Adeleke of “betrayal” and abandoning the party that brought him to power. Some party chieftains, however, privately admitted that the defection could accelerate further cracks within the PDP, especially at the grassroots level.

Political analysts note that while Adeleke’s defection reshapes the political equation, it does not automatically guarantee APC victory. According to analyst Kunle Adebayo, “APC still faces the challenge of public perception, internal unity, and delivering a compelling alternative agenda. Osun voters are more politically aware now, and sentiment will play a big role.”

As the countdown to the next governorship election begins, Osun is set for intense political maneuvering. With APC determined to reclaim the state, a weakened PDP struggling to reorganise, and smaller parties positioning themselves as alternatives, the battle for Osun promises to be one of the most closely watched political contests in the Southwest.

For now, one thing is clear: Adeleke’s defection has reset the race, and APC is wasting no time in making its move.