Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has clarified that he has not entered into any agreement with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to share legislative or local government positions ahead of the 2027 general elections. This statement was made through his spokesperson, Mr. Olawale Rasheed, in Osogbo on Wednesday. Governor Adeleke emphasized that discussions over the lingering local government crisis were focused on protecting the interests of APC chairmen, elected Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmen, and councillors.
The clarification was necessary due to social media reports alleging a political deal between Governor Adeleke and the Presidency involving the sharing of elective positions. These reports claimed that positions at the local government level, as well as seats in the Senate, House of Representatives, and Osun State House of Assembly, had been shared between the Accord Party and the APC. Governor Adeleke described these claims as "mere fabrication and fake news."
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to President Bola Tinubu's re-election and stated that the political coalition between them is limited to the 2027 presidential election, not extending to legislative contests. He mentioned that he had previously stated during the inauguration of the Presidential Campaign Council that the coalition is targeted at the presidential election. Partners agreed to join hands to ensure President Tinubu is re-elected.
The governor added that he would campaign for Accord candidates contesting Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly seats, urging other political parties to support their respective candidates. He emphasized that there is no deal on the National Assembly and the State Assembly elections, and all their candidates will face the electorate, who have the final say.
Governor Adeleke expressed confidence that the local government crisis would be resolved before the end of the year, adding that restoring grassroots governance is important to the coalition's success ahead of the 2027 elections. This clarification comes amid political developments surrounding the inauguration of a 344-member campaign council established to coordinate President Tinubu's re-election campaign in Osun State.
In a related development, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has charged traditional rulers in the State to maintain neutrality, ensure fairness, and uphold peace in their domains as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. Fubara gave the charge while declaring open the 126th, 127th, and 128th Combined Quarterly Meeting of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council, in Port Harcourt.
Fubara urged the royal fathers to abide by the oath and constitution they swore to before ascending their respective stools, in the interest of stability and progress of the State. He also enjoined them to set aside individual sentiments and place the interest of Rivers State above personal considerations, noting that this principle has guided his own day-to-day governance of the State.
Key points
- Governor Ademola Adeleke denies any agreement with APC to share legislative positions.
- The political coalition between Adeleke and President Bola Tinubu is limited to the 2027 presidential election.
- Adeleke will campaign for Accord candidates in legislative elections.
