Osun Governor Considers Accord, APGA Following PDP Resignation

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is reshaping the dynamics of the 2026 governorship race, raising questions about his next political move. Sources say the internal divisions that led to his exit could affect his campaign strategy and support base, making the contest more competitive.

Governor Adeleke appears unlikely to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), as he neither collected nor submitted the party’s nomination forms before the December 1 deadline. An APC insider said it is “almost certain” that he will not be the party’s candidate.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has already named Najeem Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and ally of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, as its consensus candidate, making Adeleke’s entry into the party improbable. Political observers also note that Bukola Saraki, a close ally of Adeleke, has distanced himself from the ADC and appears to be influencing Adeleke’s next steps.

Reports indicate that Adeleke is now considering the Accord Party or the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as potential platforms. Accord Party chairman Victor Akande said the party would welcome Adeleke and provide a waiver for him to contest if he chooses to join. Two other candidates have also expressed interest in running under Accord, though they have not yet committed financially.

Adeleke formally resigned from the PDP on November 4, 2025, citing persistent turmoil in the party’s national leadership. In his resignation letter, he thanked the party for the platform that facilitated his election as Senator representing Osun West and later as governor.