The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party in Osun State has thrown its weight behind the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, Adewale Adebayo, ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.
The endorsement was announced on Wednesday during a political gathering held in Okuku, where leaders of the faction pledged their support for Adebayo’s bid to become the next governor of Osun State.
Leading the endorsement was former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who attended the event alongside former Secretary to the State Government, Fatai Akinbade, and former PDP South-West Vice Chairman, Tajudeen Oladipo.
Oyinlola explained that the decision was a reflection of the existing cooperation between the Turaki-led PDP faction and the Allied Peoples Movement at the national level. He said the partnership was now being extended to Osun State as both groups work together ahead of the election.
As part of the event, Oyinlola presented the APM flag to Adebayo, symbolising the faction’s support for his candidacy.
Speaking after receiving the endorsement, Adebayo said his ambition was focused on winning the election and providing leadership for the people of Osun State. He noted that the backing of respected political leaders would strengthen his campaign and increase public confidence in his candidacy.
The APM candidate said many residents, particularly young people across the state, are looking for leadership they can trust and a new direction for the future. He added that his party believes it can provide that alternative and deliver good governance if elected.
Adebayo also appealed for continued support from political stakeholders and party supporters, expressing confidence that the alliance would help his campaign ahead of the polls.
Osun voters are expected to elect a new governor on August 15. The race is expected to be keenly contested, with incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking another term under the Accord Party.
Other major contenders include Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress.
The endorsement by the Turaki-led PDP faction is expected to add another dimension to the contest as political parties intensify campaigns and seek support across the state ahead of election day.