Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday formally announced his defection to the Accord Party (AP), weeks after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke made the declaration at the Banquet Hall of the Osun State Government House, where a large delegation of national and state leaders of the Accord Party gathered to welcome him.
The governor confirmed that he will contest the 2026 governorship election on the platform of the Accord Party, popularly known as the “Thumb-Up” party. He disclosed that he had quietly registered with the party on November 6, 2025, after wide consultations with political stakeholders and opinion leaders.
According to Adeleke:
“I joined the Accord Party more than a month ago, precisely on November 6, as a platform to seek re-election in 2026. This followed weeks of consultation and deliberations with stakeholders and opinion leaders. Stakeholders and residents of Osun State are aware of why we are taking this important decision. We intend to pursue a second term on the platform of the Accord Party to complete the delivery of good governance and democratic dividends that have been applauded at home and abroad.”
Adeleke noted that the Accord Party’s philosophy of welfarism aligns strongly with his administration’s focus on workers’ welfare and citizens’ well-being.
Welcoming Accord Party leaders to the Government House, he said:
“You are now part of us, as I am also part of you. We are united in progress and good intentions for the people of Osun State and Nigeria. Our task now is to sustain a united front as we prepare for the elections. Accord Party is here to take over Osun governance and continue the delivery of good governance.”
He praised the party’s people-centered ideology, saying:
“Since I joined the party, I have been fascinated by its philosophy. The primary essence of government is the welfare and well-being of the people. As governor, I have prioritised our people’s welfare. From infrastructure to social services, Osun has never had it this good.”
Adeleke urged voters across Osun’s three senatorial districts to rally behind his new political platform:
“Osun voted for good governance in 2022, and they will support continuity in 2026. Accord is our party for victory next year. In accordance with the will of our stakeholders and the wishes of the Osun people, I hereby declare for the Accord Party.”
The governor had earlier announced his resignation from the PDP on December 2, citing unresolved national leadership crises. In a statement posted on Instagram, he revealed that his resignation letter was submitted to PDP leaders in Sagba Abogunde Ward 2, Ede North Local Government, on November 4.
“Due to the ongoing crisis within the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party at the national level, I conveyed my resignation letter on November 4, 2025. I thank the party, its members and supporters for the opportunities they have given me, first as a Senator and now as Governor.”
