BREAKING: Governor Adeleke Withdraws PDP Nomination Form

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, has withdrawn his nomination form to seek re-election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

 

Governor Adeleke, who was elected in 2022 after defeating the then-incumbent Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was widely expected to seek a second term in the 2026 gubernatorial election under the PDP banner. His decision to step back from the nomination process has therefore sent shockwaves through the party’s state chapter.

 

According to party insiders, the governor’s withdrawal may be linked to the escalating crisis within the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC). Sources familiar with the matter claim that Adeleke has grown increasingly dissatisfied with what his camp describes as “persistent internal sabotage, unresolved leadership disputes, and hostile political undercurrents” within the national leadership of the party.

 

“The governor is deeply unhappy with the way the national structure has handled issues affecting Osun PDP,” a source close to the governor’s team told reporters on Sunday. “He does not believe the current environment within the party is conducive for a fair and united re-election process.”

 

The PDP in Osun State has not been immune to internal wrangling, with factions sparring over control, loyalty lines, and the allocation of political privileges. Political analysts note that the growing tension within the NWC—ranging from allegations of bias to concerns about the upcoming national convention—has worsened the situation for several state-level stakeholders, including Adeleke.

 

Although Governor Adeleke has not personally issued a formal public statement confirming the withdrawal, the party’s state chairman, Hon. Sunday Bisi, acknowledged the development in a brief communication. While he refrained from providing details, Bisi’s acknowledgement has fueled further debate on the future of the party’s leadership and its chances in the 2026 election.

 

“This is a moment of reflection for our party,” Bisi was quoted as saying. “There are ongoing engagements at different levels, and we remain committed to resolving our internal issues. The PDP will emerge stronger.”

 

Political observers are divided on what Adeleke’s move could mean. Some view it as a strategic pressure tactic aimed at compelling the PDP’s national leadership to address lingering grievances. Others believe it could signal more serious intentions, including the possibility of the governor exploring an alternative political platform should the PDP crisis escalate further.

 

A few analysts have also suggested that the withdrawal could be a temporary maneuver pending reconciliation and renegotiations within the party.

 

Meanwhile, supporters of the governor have expressed mixed feelings. Many of them took to social media to urge him not to abandon the party that brought him to power, while others argued that Adeleke must prioritize stability and loyalty over party politics, even if it means charting a new course.

 

Within Osun State, the development has stirred speculation among political actors, with opposition parties watching closely. Observers believe the APC may attempt to capitalize on any deepening rift within the PDP ahead of 2026.

 

For now, the PDP in Osun faces a critical moment. Whether Governor Adeleke ultimately reinstates his candidacy or proceeds with his withdrawal may depend on how swiftly and effectively the party can address its internal fractures. One thing is clear: the race toward the 2026 governorship election may have just taken an unexpected turn.