Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has firmly dismissed speculation about his alleged plan to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring unequivocally, “I’m not leaving.”
The governor made the statement on Monday during the official flag-off of the dualisation of the 3.5-kilometre Ila Township Road in Ila-Orangun. This event was part of a series of infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing road networks across the state.
Addressing a crowd of political leaders, community members, and party supporters, Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, emphasizing that his loyalty remains with the party under which he was elected. He described the defection rumours as baseless distractions orchestrated by political opponents who are threatened by the progress of his administration.
“I am glad that we are here today to flag off the dualisation of the Ila township road project despite the lingering uncertainties in the nation,” the governor said. “Let me make this very clear—there is no plan to leave the PDP. I made a vow before God and the people of Osun to serve faithfully, and I will not be distracted.”
He further noted that his administration’s focus remains squarely on delivering developmental projects and fulfilling campaign promises. According to the governor, his team has already completed the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and renovation of over 175 kilometres of roads across various local government areas, while several other key infrastructure projects—such as dual carriageways and flyovers—are ongoing across the state.
While speaking in Ikirun at the flag-off of the Ikirun-Ila-Odo Expressway Dualisation Project, Adeleke stressed the economic importance of the road, which connects Osun to neighbouring Kwara State. He revealed that the 39-kilometre stretch, once completed, will boost trade, ease inter-state travel, and improve the overall standard of living for residents.
“The Osogbo-Ikirun-Inisha-Okuku-Ijabe-Ila Odo axis is a vital corridor for economic activity and mobility,” he said. “The second phase of this project, which we are flagging off today, covers nearly the same length as what was completed in the last 12 years. By the grace of God, we intend to finish it in just 12 months.”
Governor Adeleke, popularly known as the “People’s Governor” for his approachable style and populist policies, framed his developmental strides as part of a divine mandate.
“Our gathering here is not just political—it is spiritual. It is not an accident of history. We are all divinely programmed by Almighty God to fulfil our roles. I will not betray the mandate entrusted to me by the people of Osun State,” he added.
The governor’s emphatic denial comes amid rising political tensions in the state and within opposition circles, with some alleging that Adeleke was being courted by the APC following his visible governance strides. However, his clear rejection of defection rumours is likely to reassure PDP loyalists and political allies.
As the 2027 election cycle approaches, Adeleke’s focus on infrastructure development and grassroots engagement may position him as a strong incumbent with broad appeal—both within Osun and the national PDP fold.
