By John Dike, Osogbo
As political activities intensify ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has received a significant boost to his re-election ambition, with a coalition of local security outfits and community-based organizations declaring support for his second term.
The endorsement, which took place in Osogbo, the state capital, saw no fewer than seventeen groups—including the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Agbekoya farmers’ association, and the Hunters Group throw their weight behind the governor, citing improved security collaboration and developmental strides under his administration.
Speaking on behalf of their respective organizations, Aremo Abiodun (Agbekoya), Oba Ogunlade Oluwasanjo (Hunters Group), and Comrade Gbadamosi Kazeem (OPC) commended the Adeleke-led government for recognizing and strengthening the role of grassroots security networks.
According to them, enhanced cooperation between the state and local vigilante groups has contributed significantly to maintaining peace and stability across Osun communities.
The endorsement also drew support from leaders of ethnic groups resident in the state. Kabiru, representing the Hausa community, and Favour Nkechi of the Igbo community, applauded the administration’s inclusive governance style, noting that it has fostered unity, reduced ethnic tensions, and promoted shared development.
The coalition highlighted key infrastructural projects executed by the current administration, including the construction of flyovers in Osogbo and Ile-Ife, ongoing road dualisation efforts, and the regular payment of salaries and pensions. These, they said, demonstrate the governor’s commitment to good governance and the welfare of citizens.
Expressing confidence in Adeleke’s chances at the polls, the groups pledged to mobilize support across their respective constituencies, emphasizing that continuity in leadership is critical to sustaining ongoing projects and expanding development initiatives across the state.
In his response, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Cultural Affairs, Prince Olamilekan Ayodeji, welcomed the endorsement, describing it as a reflection of public confidence in the administration.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots security architecture and deepening community engagement.
Meanwhile, the political landscape in Osun appears to be shifting, as more than 1,500 members of opposition parties reportedly defected to the Accord Party, further strengthening Adeleke’s support base ahead of the election.
Receiving the defectors, the Osun State Chairman of the Accord Party, Pastor Victor Akande, described the development as a major political gain.
He urged the new members to formalize their membership and actively participate in the party’s activities, assuring them of fairness and equal opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Comrade Sarafadeen Abdulateef attributed their decision to what he described as the “visible transformation” recorded under Adeleke’s leadership.
He expressed confidence that continuity in governance would consolidate the gains achieved so far and ensure sustained progress beyond 2026.
The wave of endorsements and defections underscores the growing momentum behind Adeleke’s second-term bid, setting the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely contested governorship race in Osun State.
