Osun 2026: Adeleke’s Aides, Accord Leaders Defect to APC

As political activities gather pace ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, the All Progressives Congress has received fresh members from both the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Accord Party.

Among those who joined the APC are Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Affairs, Moyoade Lukman, and Senior Special Assistant in the Governor’s Office, Azeez Kazeem. Their defection adds to a growing wave of political realignments ahead of the poll.

Also joining the APC are prominent members of the Accord Party, including former House of Representatives aspirant for Ife Federal Constituency, Dr. Leye Olagbaju, the party’s youth leader in Ife Central Local Government Area, Asamo Gbenga, and Ojuolape Olagbaju.

Speaking during the announcement in Osogbo, Dr. Olagbaju said his decision was influenced by his belief in the leadership ability of APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji. He expressed confidence that the candidate possesses the experience and vision needed to move Osun State forward.

He also disclosed that he and his supporters would mobilise their political structures across their areas of influence to support the APC’s campaign and strengthen the party’s chances in the forthcoming election.

For Lukman, the move marked a return to what he described as his political roots. He explained that his experiences in other political environments played a role in his decision to reunite with the APC and participate in its activities ahead of the governorship contest.

The APC leadership welcomed the new members and assured them of equal treatment within the party. Director-General of the APC Campaign Council, Wole Oke, said the party remains focused on securing victory in the August election and is working to build a broader coalition of supporters across the state.

Oke also revealed that more political figures, including additional aides serving in the current administration, may soon announce their defection to the APC. He said the party would make further disclosures when the time is right.

The latest defections come as political parties intensify campaigns and strengthen their structures ahead of the governorship election. With several weeks left before voters head to the polls, political observers expect more movements across party lines as candidates seek to expand their support base.

The APC believes the arrival of the new members will boost its efforts in key areas of the state, while the development is likely to attract attention as the race for Osun Government House enters a more competitive phase.