The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has issued a definitive statement categorically refuting persistent rumors about Governor Ademola Adeleke’s alleged defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party leadership described these claims as completely false and part of a deliberate misinformation campaign by opposition elements.

According to party sources, the defection rumors are directly connected to the ongoing controversy over local government council control in the state. The APC has been attempting to regain control after their council chiefs were permanently sacked by an Appeal Court judgment in January 2025.

The political tensions escalated when APC’s relisting application hit a “brick wall” on June 13, 2025, as the Court of Appeal dismissed their attempt to reinstate previously sacked council officials. The court affirmed that council chiefs elected under the APC platform remained permanently removed from office.

Governor Adeleke subsequently conducted fresh elections and swore in new council officials in late February, demonstrating his commitment to the rule of law despite political pressure.

Responding to the rumors, Governor Adeleke issued a direct statement through his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, on July 5, 2025. The governor emphasized his unwavering loyalty to the PDP.

“I assure the good people of Osun that I remain part and parcel of the PDP family. I am not defecting to any party,” Governor Adeleke stated categorically.

The governor’s use of “family” terminology reflects his deep personal commitment to the party beyond mere political partnership.

Party leadership attributes the rumor campaign to APC’s growing anxiety over Governor Adeleke’s governance achievements. In less than three years in office, the administration has recorded significant successes in infrastructural development, human capital development, and poverty alleviation programs.

Key accomplishments include the Cooperatives Revolving Loan Scheme, improved ease of doing business initiatives, prioritized workers’ welfare, and specialized care units for people with special needs.

These achievements have reportedly overshadowed what party sources describe as “12 wasteful years” of APC governance before Governor Adeleke assumed office in November 2022.

The PDP State Chairman emphasized that party members should ignore what he termed “agents of darkness” spreading false information. The party leadership has reassured members that Governor Adeleke “goes nowhere” from the PDP.

With the 2026 gubernatorial election approaching in August, the majority of Osun residents reportedly want Governor Adeleke to continue serving until 2030, according to party assessments.

The governor has committed to remaining focused on governance rather than engaging in what party officials describe as “dirty politics” that prioritizes political games over the general wellbeing and development of the state.

Party leadership expects these rumors to “die a natural death” as Governor Adeleke remains undeterred in his commitment to the PDP and his five-point agenda for Osun State development.