Former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola says the political party Governor Ademola Adeleke will use for his 2026 re-election bid will be decided once the governor returns from a foreign trip.
Addressing speculations about Adeleke’s possible defection, Oyinlola described the Accord Party as a credible and fair option. He, however, stressed that he would only follow Adeleke to a party that aligns with his principles, noting that he once rejected plans to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) because of his history with the party and its unmet promises.
Speaking on Rave FM’s political programme Oro Oselu, Oyinlola explained that internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), especially at the national level, could jeopardise the party’s nomination process and may force Adeleke to consider alternatives.
He said:
“There was a time we considered moving to the APC, but I made it clear I would not follow them there. The APC does not honour promises. My decision to move with Governor Adeleke depends on the party chosen. If it’s a party I do not believe in, I will not join.”
Oyinlola added that while APGA would offer only a “one-shot chance,” Accord Party remains a reasonable platform because he understands its origins and was involved in the formation of similar parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC), though the ADC failed to meet expectations.
He confirmed that once Adeleke returns this week, stakeholders will meet and announce their collective decision.
On efforts to resolve PDP crises across states, Oyinlola stated that disputes in four of six affected chapters had been resolved.
Commenting on national issues, he criticised the federal government’s handling of the economy and security, noting that widespread hardship and insecurity persist.
Reports suggest that Adeleke may leave the PDP ahead of the 2026 governorship poll, though he has not publicly declared his next political platform.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set December 15, 2025, as the deadline for political parties to submit names of candidates for the August 8, 2026, Osun governorship election.
