Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, has officially emerged as the governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the 2026 elections, following a primary election held in Osogbo.
The process was closely monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other election observers.
Adeleke, the sole aspirant for the position, secured 145 votes, with five votes declared void.
Upon receiving the certificate of return, the governor expressed gratitude to party members and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the development trajectory of the state.
During the event, Adeleke unveiled an upgraded five-point agenda for the 2026 electoral race.
The blueprint includes: integrated citizens’ and workers’ welfare; infrastructure consolidation for economic prosperity; agro-industrial expansion aimed at youth empowerment; innovations in health, education, and social care; and the creation of a more enabling business environment to stimulate job creation.
Speaking to supporters and party officials, Adeleke said, “We are launching the battle for continuity of progress, good governance, and democratic dividends.
Our candidacy signals the sustenance of the golden movement, ensuring the light of development continues to shine across Osun State.”
The governor emphasised the contrast between his administration and previous governments, challenging political opponents to be judged on their performance records.
“In their days in power, they failed the people, failed their parties, and even failed themselves. Today, the people reject them,” he stated.
Adeleke highlighted his administration’s accomplishments over the past three years, noting significant improvements in governance metrics.
He said, “Osun moved from number 33 under the APC government to number 7 in national examination rankings under my leadership.
We have reduced the state’s infrastructure deficit by over 40 percent, paid down more than 40 percent of inherited debt, and led the South-West in access to primary health care.”
The governor also reiterated his commitment to innovative governance, promising new initiatives for the 2026 term.
“The upcoming race is not just about past achievements; we are introducing new packages to take our people to unprecedented levels of development,” he added.
National Chairman of Accord Party, Maxwell Mgbudem, described Adeleke’s emergence as a confirmation of the party’s commitment to internal democracy and due process.
He also expressed confidence in the governor’s chances for re-election, terming the development “divinely ordained” and a testament to Adeleke’s leadership.
The primary election event in Osogbo further reinforced Accord Party’s positioning as a major player in Osun State politics, with the governor leveraging his achievements and popularity to consolidate support ahead of the 2026 polls.
