Governor Adeleke Addresses PDP Challenges, Reaffirms Commitment to Osun Development

In a bid to calm rising tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and reassure loyalists, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has responded to the recent resignation of House of Representatives member, Wole Oke, and acknowledged internal party challenges as he prepares for his re-election bid.

Speaking through a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke emphasized that while certain forces within and outside the PDP are working against his administration, he remains focused on delivering democratic dividends and expanding the base of support across Osun State.

Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba Poised to Resign Amid Strained Ties with Governor Bago

Strengthening the PDP Amid Internal Movements

The focus keyword here is “Commitment,” reflecting Adeleke’s consistent assurance to the people of Osun State amid internal and external political turbulence.

Governor Adeleke directly addressed the fallout from Wole Oke’s resignation, asserting that the party has not lost any “genuine supporters” and emphasizing that defections or resignations would not derail the PDP’s objectives in Osun.

“We know how we got to Government House and we know those God used to make it possible. We know those who worked openly or silently to stop us. We also know those who opposed us then but have now embraced our good governance mantra,” the governor stated.

Adeleke acknowledged the challenges but maintained that his government had grown stronger since taking office, thanks in large part to the visible achievements of his administration. According to him, the ongoing wave of support from different political quarters is a direct response to his government’s focus on transparency, inclusiveness, and results-driven leadership.

“Our good work has gained us more supporters, partners, and men of goodwill across party lines,” he added.

Inclusiveness and Development for All Federal Constituencies

Governor Adeleke highlighted the broad-based representation in his cabinet, asserting that his administration is one that represents all corners of the state and not just specific political interests.

He emphasized that all federal constituencies are fairly represented and that his government’s projects and programmes are distributed equitably across Osun State.

“A particular federal constituency has three critical portfolios in my cabinet. Our infrastructure plan benefits all corners of the state. Our local content programmes spread opportunities to all and sundry,” Adeleke noted.

The governor’s statement appears aimed at countering criticisms that certain constituencies were marginalized in the allocation of political appointments and projects. By stressing fairness and broad-based development, Adeleke is positioning himself as a unifying figure capable of maintaining the PDP’s dominance across the state ahead of the 2026 governorship elections.

Tackling Internal Party Challenges

Governor Adeleke also addressed ongoing disputes within the local government system, a key area where tensions have been brewing between factions within the party and between the PDP and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).

He expressed optimism that the issues would soon be resolved, underscoring his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and due process.

“Within the context of rule of law, we will soon resolve the face-off within the local government system,” he stated.

The internal crisis largely stems from disagreements over local government elections, control of grassroots structures, and revenue collection battles, as APC-elected council chairmen challenge PDP-installed local government officials despite pending legal outcomes.

Observers believe resolving these grassroots challenges will be critical to Adeleke’s efforts to maintain political stability and secure a second term in office.

Building Grassroots Support for Re-Election

Governor Adeleke called on all party loyalists to avoid distractions and focus on expanding grassroots mobilisation efforts, stressing that the strength of the PDP would depend on unity, hard work, and staying connected to the people.

“We must avoid distraction and continue to target grassroots mobilisation,” the governor urged.

Grassroots engagement is expected to be pivotal in the upcoming 2026 election cycle, especially given the fierce competition anticipated from the APC, which is also rebuilding its base in the state following recent setbacks.

Adeleke’s emphasis on grassroots loyalty echoes his campaign strategy from the 2022 governorship election, where local mobilization and broad public goodwill played significant roles in his victory.

Acknowledging Endorsements and Expressing Gratitude

In a show of confidence, Governor Adeleke took time to thank various groups and individuals who have publicly endorsed his bid for a second term. He described their expressions of solidarity as encouraging signs of widespread acceptance of his leadership and governance style.

“I must express my appreciation to groups and individuals who are endorsing us for a second term and who are pledging solidarity, loyalty, and commitment to the PDP,” Adeleke said.

These endorsements, he explained, serve as motivation for his administration to continue delivering developmental projects, promoting good governance, and building a more prosperous Osun State for all residents.

As political dynamics within Osun State continue to evolve, Governor Ademola Adeleke appears determined to maintain focus on his administration’s development agenda while navigating internal party challenges. His emphasis on commitment to inclusiveness, the rule of law, and grassroots mobilisation suggests a deliberate strategy to solidify the PDP’s hold on the state and secure a second term.

While defections and resignations might create momentary ripples, Adeleke’s confidence, underpinned by ongoing public endorsements and visible developmental strides, points to a robust campaign machinery already taking shape ahead of the 2026 governorship election.