WorldStage– Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has reportedly stepped back from seeking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nomination for the 2026 gubernatorial election, citing the ongoing national leadership crisis within the party.
The Osun PDP chairman, Sunday Bisi, confirmed today, Monday, that the party’s governorship primary, originally scheduled for December 2, has been suspended.
Bisi disclosed that Adeleke may no longer be interested in the PDP nomination unless the national disputes are resolved in line with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requirements, underscoring the impact of factional tensions involving key figures such as Nyesom Wike.
Despite the national party instability, Adeleke enjoys strong support from the Osun PDP chapter, which regards him as the most viable candidate for the 2026 elections.
Local party leaders and PDP senators in the state have reportedly rallied behind him, framing a potential departure as a strategic move to safeguard electoral success.
Analysts say this regional solidarity positions Adeleke to maintain a robust political base even outside the PDP structure.
Speculation is rife over Adeleke’s next political move, with the Accord Party emerging as the leading option, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and other smaller platforms are also being considered.
Sources indicate that discussions were largely complete as of late November 2025, with a formal announcement expected soon after Adeleke’s return from an overseas trip.
His camp has dismissed rumors of joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while social media analysts predict a party revolt could occur before INEC’s December 15 deadline.
Political observers suggest Adeleke’s exit could reshape Osun’s electoral landscape, where his popularity enhanced by his high-profile persona and influential family makes him a formidable figure.
The APC, with aspirants like Bola Oyebamiji, is poised to exploit PDP weaknesses, while civil society groups, including The Osun Masterminds, criticize Adeleke for prioritizing politics over governance.
Adeleke’s team, however, maintains that the move is strategic, aimed at ensuring continuity and victory in the 2026 elections.
