Introduction to the 2026 Governorship Election in Osun State
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed confidence in winning the August 8, 2026, governorship election, declaring that his popularity and performance will guarantee his re-election.
Governor Adeleke’s Confidence in Re-election
Speaking with journalists on Thursday after his screening at the National Campaign Organisation Committee (NCOC) Secretariat in Maitama, Abuja, Adeleke said he had performed “wonderfully well” and was confident that the people of Osun would return him for a second term. The governor, who was screened and cleared by the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the party’s Legacy House in Abuja ahead of the 2026 primary election, said his achievements in office had endeared him to the electorate. “It is because I have performed wonderfully well. There is something called fact-checking; as journalists, you should fact-check, and you will discover that I have done so well. My people are happy with me, and that is why they want me to continue,” he said.
Addressing Concerns of Federal Might
On whether he feared the influence of the ‘federal might’ of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Adeleke dismissed such concerns, insisting that his popularity was enough to secure victory. “I am very popular. Everywhere you go, you hear people call me Imole — say Imole! So, I am not afraid of federal might. The President knows my election comes before the general elections, and he will not want to mess anything up,” the governor stated confidently.
INEC’s Warning to Political Parties
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties in Osun State against violating electoral laws ahead of their forthcoming primaries, urging strict adherence to the timetable and regulations guiding the 2026 governorship election in the state. Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, gave the warning during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Olusegun Agbaje Media Centre, Osogbo. Agboke reminded political parties that, according to the election timetable, party primaries must be held between November 24 and December 15, 2025, in line with Section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandates political parties to democratically nominate their candidates.
Importance of Internal Democracy
Agboke emphasized the importance of internal democracy within parties, stating, “We appeal to political parties in the state to allow internal democracy to guide their conduct. Free and fair elections begin with how parties conduct their primaries. A rancour-free process will not only reduce pre-election litigations but also strengthen the party’s unity and the legitimacy of candidates.” The REC also warned that campaign activities have not commenced, cautioning that any political party or candidate engaging in premature campaigns would be violating the law.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Governor Ademola Adeleke is confident in his re-election bid for the 2026 Osun State governorship election, citing his performance and popularity as key factors. Meanwhile, INEC has issued a warning to political parties to adhere to electoral laws and timetables, emphasizing the importance of internal democracy and the avoidance of premature campaigning.
FAQs
- Q: When is the Osun State governorship election scheduled to take place?
A: The Osun State governorship election is scheduled for August 8, 2026. - Q: What is the timeframe for party primaries as per the electoral timetable?
A: Party primaries must be held between November 24 and December 15, 2025. - Q: What is the significance of internal democracy in the electoral process?
A: Internal democracy is crucial as it ensures free and fair elections, reduces pre-election litigations, and strengthens party unity and candidate legitimacy. - Q: Can political parties or candidates engage in campaign activities before the official start of the campaign period?
A: No, engaging in premature campaigns is a violation of the law.
