Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has issued a stark warning to President Bola Tinubu against any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026. Speaking directly to the president, Adeleke, who identified himself as the Chief Security Officer of Osun State, made it clear that the state would not tolerate electoral interference.
Adeleke Invokes 1983 Political Crisis
Adeleke drew on a dark chapter of Nigeria's political history to emphasize his point, referencing the controversial 1983 election crisis in Ondo State, where Chief Michael Ajasin was allegedly rigged out of power. The governor warned that a similar attempt in Osun could trigger a comparable crisis.
"If anybody tries to do otherwise, the political crisis of 1983, when some people tried to rig Michael Ajasin out of power in Ondo State, may repeat itself again," Adeleke said.
Adeleke Questions Hardship Despite Accord Party Support
Beyond the election warning, Adeleke raised concerns about the economic difficulties facing Osun residents. He pointed out that the Accord Party had endorsed Tinubu as its presidential candidate and questioned why the state's people continue to suffer despite that political support.
"President Tinubu, the Accord Party has endorsed you as its presidential candidate. Why are we suffering again?" the governor added.
Nigerians React to Adeleke's Statement
The governor's remarks have sparked reactions from Nigerians, with some criticizing his stance and others expressing support. Taofik Sulaimon decried the governor's claim, saying, "When it's time for politics, governors are the CSOs; when it's time for insecurity, the president is the CSO of every state."
Aderemi expressed confidence that the governor would lose the election, stating, "The same rigging brought him to power, and he'll also be rigged out as well. If he likes, let him insult Tinubu; it'll never save him. What transpired during the last election that brought him to power will never happen again. He'll lose this election and he'll be alright."
Kayode Wusu called on the president to address the governor's outburst, suggesting, "@officialABAT Your Excellency Sir, one or two military parades across Osun may just be all they need. If all the players can't act maturely, please clip their wings...Though I suspect this man's cry may be one of a dying horse. A like him best fit is entertainment at parties."
Adeshina Sule faulted the governor, saying, "Those wishing bad things or plotting evil are nervous, restless, and have a traditional way of exposing themselves. Yoruba ni aṣe buburu; ẹ ku ara fifu."
Background and Context
The August 15 governorship election in Osun State is expected to be closely contested, with Adeleke seeking re-election against candidates from other parties. The Accord Party's endorsement of Tinubu has added a layer of complexity to the political dynamics, as Adeleke questions the rationale behind the state's continued hardship despite such support.
As the election approaches, tensions remain high, and Adeleke's warning serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of Nigerian politics. The president has yet to respond publicly to the governor's statements.
