Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared that the August 15 governorship election carries a significance beyond merely retaining power, framing it as an opportunity for residents to send a firm message to the All Progressives Congress (APC) about respecting the democratic choices of Nigerians. In a statement issued via his X handle on Thursday, August 6, 2026, the Accord Party governor accused former Osun Governor Gboyega Oyetola and APC's Oyebamiji of weaponising their influence at the federal level to penalise Osun residents for voting in favour of his administration in the 2022 election.
Adeleke Accuses APC of Federal-Level Punishment
According to Adeleke, those actions directly hurt the welfare of workers, civil servants, traders, artisans, and ordinary citizens across the state. He added that a decisive win on August 15 would send "a clear and unmistakable message to the APC" that the people of Osun must be respected and should never be punished for exercising their constitutional right to vote.
The governor's remarks come just nine days before the poll, intensifying the political atmosphere in the state. Adeleke's statement underscores his belief that the election is not just about his re-election but about the broader principle of democratic accountability.
Social Media Reactions: Supporters and Critics Speak Out
The governor's statement drew a range of responses on social media, with supporters expressing confidence and critics voicing concerns. @bukola_lawrence wrote: "You have 70 percent chance to emerge as the governor of the state because you are the sitting governor and you've done some tangible things, don't let fear be in your voice, let the president know you are not fubara, be audible, you have a lot of people that don't cherish APC."
@Phredo01 added: "We are ready to tell the whole world that standing with IMỌLẸ is not by mistake; we are determined to re-elect the best-performing Governor ever in the history of our state, and no one can intimidate us."
However, critics were equally vocal. @Ola__4pf wrote: "You endorsed Tinubu and went against the wish of the people. Don't expect our support." @AjetMoe was more direct: "You turned my state into a shell of itself, and now you're trying to win the sympathy of the same people you've failed. Your tenure has been defined by incompetence and corruption."
Critics Question Support Base and Electoral Integrity
@SaheedOlaSalami dismissed the governor's support base, writing: "You are using your less than 50k Accord Party members to generalise like millions of Osun citizens are not against your candidacy. Go back home, AMBO we wanta." This comment highlights the perception that Adeleke's support may be overstated, a point that could influence undecided voters.
@solomon_tr56139 urged voters to focus on results: "The people of Osun are wise enough to judge based on facts, performance, and results — not emotions or political narratives. August 15 is about choosing the best future for our state." This call for issue-based voting reflects a broader sentiment among some residents who prioritise governance over party loyalty.
@presto100 raised concerns about the electoral process itself, writing: "The people are obviously behind you. Your concern now should be towards INEC. I don't think they are actually independent." Such doubts about the electoral body could have implications for voter turnout and acceptance of results.
Okpebholo Mocks Adeleke at APC Rally
In a related development, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo addressed an APC campaign rally in Osun State on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Okpebholo repeatedly mocked Governor Adeleke over his dancing habit, claiming the Osun governor rarely attended governors' meetings in Abuja. The Edo governor also told rally attendees to collect money allegedly distributed by the Accord Party but cast their votes for the APC.
This political taunting adds a personal dimension to the campaign, with Adeleke's dancing becoming a recurring theme in APC attacks. However, Adeleke's supporters see his dancing as a sign of energy and connection with the people, while critics view it as unbecoming of a governor.
Implications for the August 15 Election
The election is set to be a tight contest, with Adeleke seeking a second term against the APC candidate, who has the backing of the federal government. The governor's framing of the election as a referendum on APC's respect for voters could resonate with residents who feel targeted by federal policies.
However, critics argue that Adeleke's tenure has been marked by incompetence and corruption, citing the EFCC's freezing of Osun State accounts as evidence. The outcome will depend on how voters weigh these competing narratives.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, both parties are intensifying efforts to mobilise supporters. The APC's reliance on federal influence and Adeleke's appeal to democratic rights set the stage for a high-stakes showdown on August 15.
