APC, SDP Leaders Defect to Adeleke's Accord Party in Osun's Obokun LGA
In a significant political realignment, several prominent leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Esa Oke, located within the Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, have officially defected to the Accord Party. This move signals a strategic shift as they declare their unwavering support for Governor Ademola Adeleke's re-election campaign, scheduled for later in August 2026.
Key Defectors and Their Backgrounds
The defection, which took place on Thursday, was spearheaded by a group of influential local figures. Among them are Oni Olayinka, who previously served as the councillor for Ward 07; Ogunsakin Bukola, a former ward representative to federal lawmaker Wole Oke; Seyi Omojowogbe; Ajiboye Adegbite, a former ward representative on non-indigene affairs; Oluwasesan Sunday; and Akogun Tayo. These individuals bring considerable grassroots experience and political clout to the Accord Party, enhancing its organizational strength in the region.
Reception and Motivations Behind the Move
On behalf of Governor Adeleke, his Chief of Staff, Kazeem Akinleye, warmly received the defectors. Akinleye highlighted that the decision to switch allegiances was driven by Adeleke's notable achievements in office, his inclusive leadership style, and his commitment to people-driven governance. The defectors have pledged their loyalty to the Accord Party and expressed a firm dedication to mobilizing grassroots support to secure Adeleke's second term in office.
Political Implications and Analysis
Pelumi Olajengbesi, a lawyer and the convener of the Imole Grassroots Mobilisation Network—a support movement advocating for Adeleke's re-election—described this development as a substantial blow to the APC. He emphasized that it consolidates Adeleke's growing political dominance in the Obokun Local Government Area. Olajengbesi further commented that the defeat of the APC's governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, has become more achievable and less challenging following the party's appointment of Wole Oke as the campaign director general.
Election Schedule Update
In related news, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on Thursday that the Osun governorship poll has been rescheduled. Originally set for August 8, 2026, the election has been shifted by one week to August 15, 2026. This adjustment provides additional time for campaign activities and voter mobilization efforts across the state.
Contenders and Political Landscape
The upcoming poll will feature a competitive race, with APC's Bola Oyebamiji among other contenders challenging Governor Adeleke of the Accord Party, who is seeking re-election. Adeleke, who joined the Accord Party from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in December 2025, successfully emerged as the party's flag bearer, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral battle in Osun State.
