Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on the residents of Osun State to remain vigilant as the state prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for August 15, 2026. The warning comes in response to the recent public assurances from leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding their support for a credible and transparent electoral process.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke advised voters not to lower their guard despite the commitments made by the APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
The Governor suggested that these recent remarks contrast with earlier messages from opposition supporters, which allegedly implied that federal might could be used to influence the election outcome.
Adeleke maintained that the sudden shift in the opposition’s tone has raised concerns rather than providing reassurance. He urged the APC leadership to formally apologize for previous statements that residents perceived as attempts to undermine democratic choice.
According to the Governor, messages circulating on social media regarding the potential use of federal authority have generated significant anxiety among political stakeholders and residents.
While calling on federal institutions and security agencies to maintain strict neutrality, Governor Adeleke commended civic groups and community organizers for their early efforts in mobilizing voters. He noted that such grassroots activism is essential for protecting the integrity of the polls and ensuring that the will of the electorate is respected.
The Governor’s remarks followed a gathering in Iragbiji, where Minister Adegboyega Oyetola expressed confidence that the APC would emerge victorious in 2026. Oyetola, a former governor of the state, told party supporters that the APC is fully prepared for the contest and focused on strengthening its grassroots base.
He also used the occasion to urge residents to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise, describing it as a vital civic duty.
Adeleke reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to a peaceful and credible contest. He emphasized that his party would continue to mobilize supporters to ensure that every vote counts, asserting that the citizens of Osun must remain the final deciders of the state’s leadership.
