Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke said on Wednesday that he is certain of winning another four-year term in the 2026 governorship election, insisting that his achievements in office have earned him deep support across the state.
He stated that the people of Osun, who he described as “wiser,” understand what genuine leadership looks like and will vote based on performance rather than party identity.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Adeleke explained that the next election will be shaped by the credibility of the candidates, not their political platforms. He said residents can clearly distinguish between past failures and what he has delivered since assuming office.
According to him, workers endured prolonged hardship under the previous administration due to unpaid salaries, while his own administration restored confidence by prioritising welfare and stability. He added that his “records” already testify to the difference he has made.
When asked whether he was concerned about the influence of federal power in the coming contest, Adeleke dismissed such fears. He pointed out that he won the 2022 governorship election despite being in the opposition, and he believes the same can happen again in 2026.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu, having previously been in opposition, understands what it means to compete without federal backing and still prevail. Adeleke stressed that elections are ultimately determined by the electorate, not by political pressure.
Adeleke insisted that the “so-called” federal strength cannot override the will of the voters. He said that once the people make their choice, no ruling party can alter the outcome in a democratic system. Emphasising continuity, the governor said he is confident Osun residents will return him to office, declaring that “Imole is here to stay.”
The governor recently switched political platforms, joining the Accord Party on Tuesday after formally exiting the Peoples Democratic Party, the party under which he won in 2022. He secured the Accord Party governorship ticket the following day.
Adeleke will face contenders from major parties, including the All Progressives Congress, the PDP and candidates backed by the African Democratic Party coalition, in what analysts describe as an election that could determine the direction of his political career.
What you should know
Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed strong confidence in his chances of winning reelection in 2026, attributing his optimism to what he believes is a clear record of impactful governance.
He argues that Osun residents recognise the difference between his leadership and that of his predecessor and will vote for continuity rather than party labels. Adeleke, who recently defected to the Accord Party and secured its governorship ticket, maintains that federal influence will not determine the outcome of the election.
He insists that his achievements, public goodwill and the democratic will of the people will guide the final decision.
