Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has firmly dispelled rumors of his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stressing his continued loyalty to the party and reaffirming his role as its leader in the state.
The clarification followed a wave of media speculation suggesting that the governor might be planning to cross over to the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly after a recent visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, issued a statement on Thursday, categorically dismissing the defection claims as unfounded and misleading. He emphasized that Governor Adeleke’s allegiance to the PDP remains steadfast and that the visit to the President had no political undertones.
“The media speculation about likely or imminent defection is fake news. Governor Adeleke remains a member and leader of the PDP in Osun State,” Rasheed stated, making it clear that there is no shift in the governor’s political alignment.
He went on to explain that the meeting between the Adeleke family and President Tinubu should be interpreted strictly as a “routine courtesy visit,” devoid of any hidden political agenda or suggestions of realignment. According to Rasheed, such familial and institutional visits are not uncommon and should not be misconstrued as indicators of political intentions.
The rumor mill had been active since the governor’s appearance at the Presidential Villa alongside other members of the Adeleke family, prompting intense speculation, especially on social media and certain news outlets. However, Thursday’s statement sought to put those rumors to rest and reiterate the governor’s dedication to the party that brought him to office.
Governor Adeleke, widely known for his vibrant leadership style and visible commitment to governance in Osun State, has in recent times continued to emphasize unity and development within the PDP ranks. His administration’s policies and reforms have largely reflected the party’s core values, and his political engagements have centered around consolidating the party’s presence in the state.
Mallam Rasheed urged the public and party loyalists to disregard the “fake news” and to focus on the progress being made under Governor Adeleke’s leadership. He also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, which he noted could create unnecessary political tension.
The clarification is expected to quell concerns among PDP supporters and stakeholders who may have been rattled by the reports, reassuring them of the governor’s ongoing commitment to the party’s vision and his role in driving its success in Osun State.
What you should know
Governor Ademola Adeleke has denied all speculations regarding his defection from the PDP, asserting that he remains fully committed to the party and its leadership in Osun State.
His visit to President Tinubu, according to his spokesperson, was purely a courtesy call and not indicative of any political shift.
