Governor Ademola Adeleke Dumps PDP, Joins Accord Party Ahead of 2026 Re-Election Bid

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has officially defected to the Accord Party after months of internal speculation and quiet political manoeuvring. Adeleke, who was elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), confirmed that he joined his new party more than a month ago and will be seeking re-election in 2026 under its banner.

The governor made the announcement during a briefing at the Banquet Hall of the Government House. The statement was released by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, who noted that Adeleke’s transition had been in the works long before it became public.

Adeleke said his decision followed “wide consultations” and was driven by his conviction that Accord’s ideology aligns with his own priorities for workers’ welfare, grassroots development, and citizen-focused governance.

“We opted for the Accord Party because its mission of welfarism aligns with our passionate focus on citizens and workers’ welfare. Since I joined, I have been fascinated by the philosophy of this great party. The primary essence of a government is the welfare and well-being of the people.

“I welcome the leadership of Accord from the National into Osun State. You are now part of us as I am also now part of you. We are united in progress and good intentions for the good people of Osun State and Nigeria at large.

“Our task is to sustain a united front as we prepare for future elections. We have a duty to ensure an inclusive leadership where the interests of all groups are cared for. Our party, Accord Party, is here to take over Osun governance and sustain the delivery of good governance in our dear state,” the statement read in part.

Adeleke also submitted a formal resignation letter to the PDP Chairman of Ward 2, Sagba Abogunde, in Ede North Local Government. In the letter, he cited the ongoing crisis within the PDP’s national leadership as one of the key reasons for his departure.

The governor expressed appreciation to the PDP for giving him a political platform, beginning with his tenure as senator representing Osun West from 2017 to 2019, and later as governor.

With his switch now official, political observers say Osun’s 2026 election landscape has entered a new phase, one that could reshape alliances, recalibrate power blocs, and test the strength of Accord Party in a major statewide contest.