Osun Gov Adeleke Defects to Accord Party, Unveils It as Platform for 2026 Re-Election Bid

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a bold political maneuver aimed at consolidating his grip on power, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State formally unveiled the Accord Party as his new electoral vehicle on Tuesday, announcing his defection to the platform over a month ago to pursue a second term in the 2026 governorship election.

Adeleke, who has been at the helm of Osun’s governance since November 2022 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), disclosed that he joined the Accord Party on November 6, 2025, following extensive consultations with stakeholders and opinion leaders across the state.

The move, which had been the subject of speculation in political circles, is positioned as a strategic step to “complete ongoing delivery of good governance and democratic dividends,” which the governor claims have earned widespread acclaim both locally and internationally.

“Today, we unveiled the Accord Party, our new platform for the good people of Osun State. From Osun West to Osun East to Osun Central, this is our party, our new platform for victory come August next year,” Adeleke declared during a statewide address, emphasizing the party’s reach across the state’s three senatorial districts.

The governor cited the Accord Party’s core philosophy of welfarism as a perfect alignment with his administration’s priorities on citizens’ and workers’ welfare.

“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,” he stated.

Adeleke extended a warm welcome to the national leadership of the Accord Party, integrating them into Osun’s political fold. “I welcome the leadership of the 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,” he said.

The defection comes amid reported internal frictions within the PDP, though Adeleke framed it as a proactive choice to sustain momentum. Stakeholders and residents, he noted, are “aware of why we are taking this important decision,” underscoring the need for an inclusive front ahead of the polls.

“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,” Adeleke affirmed.

The announcement has sent ripples through Osun’s political landscape, with supporters hailing it as a fresh start and critics questioning the timing just eight months before the election. Party loyalists from across the state gathered in Osogbo for the unveiling, chanting slogans of unity and victory.

As Adeleke’s camp ramps up mobilization, the Accord Party—traditionally a smaller player in national politics—gains a high-profile boost, potentially reshaping the 2026 race in the Southwest state known for its fierce electoral battles.