By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
A recent development in Osun State politics has led to intense debate and speculation.
Two senators, Francis Fadahunsi and Olubiyi Fadeyi, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This move has raised concerns about the potential defection of Governor Ademola Adeleke, with some APC members expressing reservations about his possible membership.
The governor’s potential defection has led to conflict among supporters of both parties. Some APC governorship aspirants are worried that Adeleke’s membership would hinder their chances of securing the party’s ticket.
Former Deputy Governor Iyiola Omisore said, “The governor should talk to party leaders in the state rather than going to some governor colleagues to smuggle him into the APC. If the state chairman is not aware of his coming, the national chairman is not aware, then we party members are not sure he is coming to join us.”
Oladele Oyelude, Coordinator of Tinubu-Shettima Ambassadors, believes Adeleke’s defection would be a significant gain for the APC, particularly in the 2027 elections. He said, “It would be wrong for leaders of the party, especially appointees of the President, to be seen to be trying to antagonise Governor Adeleke’s effort to join the APC. For now, he is still popular among the people, and that is a big plus for the President and the party. I think we should let him move into the party, and then we can negotiate other interests.”
The development has also led to a social media war between supporters of both parties, with PDP supporters teasing their APC counterparts about the governor’s potential takeover and APC members dismissing the idea as futile. As a result, governance in the state has been affected. Government activities have been slowing down over the past few weeks.
