Wike’s Remarks Spark Anxiety in Osun PDP Ahead of 2026 Election

Tension has intensified within the Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following remarks by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which have stirred uncertainty over Governor Ademola Adeleke’s prospects of securing the party’s ticket for the 2026 governorship election.

Wike, during a live television interview on Monday night, was asked about the PDP’s readiness for the forthcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti. In his response, he expressed concern about the party’s internal divisions, warning that the PDP was “in danger.” He referenced a private conversation with Governor Adeleke, saying he had cautioned him about the risks ahead. According to Wike, “Ask the governor of Osun, Adeleke. He came to see me and I told him, you are in danger. I don’t like people who are not truthful. Ask him whether I never told him that he’s running into danger. There’s this spirit among governors that they can do magic.”

The remarks have sparked unease among party members in Osun, with many expressing fears that the crisis at the national level could undermine Adeleke’s re-election plans. A party leader, Adewale Adegbite, said the comments had raised concerns about the PDP’s readiness for the 2026 polls. “You can listen to what Wike said. Are we not done for as a party? We were preparing well for next year’s election, but this development may disrupt our plans,” he lamented.

Another senior party figure, who preferred anonymity, confirmed that Adeleke has been engaging various factions within the PDP to secure a smooth nomination process, including holding discussions with Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

However, the Osun PDP has downplayed the growing tension. The party’s Director of Media, Oladele Olabamji, dismissed any suggestion of crisis, insisting that Adeleke’s nomination process was on course. “We don’t foresee any danger. As far as we are concerned, Governor Adeleke has started his nomination process, and it will be completed without any issue,” he said.

Despite the reassurance, Wike’s comments have left many within the Osun PDP uneasy, as the party braces for what could be a turbulent road to the 2026 governorship election.