Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has responded to critics from the All Progressives Congress (APC) who dismissed his nearly four years in office as "years of music and dance," attributing their remarks to jealousy. Speaking at an ARISE News Town Hall in Osogbo on Monday, August 11, 2026, less than a week before the state's governorship election, Adeleke said, "They are jealous of me because they cannot dance in the first place."
Governor's Response to 'Music and Dance' Critics
Adeleke, who is seeking re-election in the Saturday, August 16 poll, emphasized that his dancing does not detract from his seriousness in governance. "Nobody, I repeat, nobody will stop me from dancing. I am a very prudent person and I am a very serious person. There is time for everything, there is time to dance and there is time to work," he said, drawing reactions from the audience.
The governor's remarks came as he faced questions about his administration's performance, with opponents using the label to question his focus. However, Adeleke insisted that his record would speak for itself, vowing victory despite the political tension.
Adeleke Accuses APC of Using Federal Power
Beyond the dancing controversy, Adeleke leveled sharper accusations at his political opponents, alleging that APC figures were exploiting the proximity of a top member to President Bola Tinubu to exert pressure in Osun. He claimed this situation has "caused a lot of problems in Osun State."
The governor also raised alarm over the detention of his party's candidate, asking, "Our candidate is in jail in Abuja. For what? If you know that you can win, why are you arresting my people? Why are you using federal might to arrest, to intimidate, to scare people?" He noted that he had been in contact with Bishop Matthew Coker regarding negotiations, and that roughly 14 of those detained had been released by the time of his speech.
Governor Vows Victory Amid Rising Tension
Adeleke closed his appearance on a combative note, insisting that no level of intimidation would alter the outcome. "There is no amount of intimidation. The work I have done will speak for itself. Come this Saturday, I will be victorious," he said.
The town hall comes amid reports of rising tension ahead of what is shaping up to be one of the most keenly contested elections in the state in recent years. The political atmosphere has been charged, with both parties mobilizing supporters and raising concerns about security.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that politician and media executive Babatunde Michael Abimboye urged Adeleke and the Imole Campaign Council to focus more on grassroots mobilisation and citizen participation rather than relying on assurances from the Federal Government. Speaking with journalists in Lagos, Abimboye said recent developments in Osun raised concerns about the political atmosphere and security situation, highlighting the need for a robust grassroots strategy.
