Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s decision to skip the Peoples Democratic Party’s primary election has been attributed to his alleged plan to temporarily defect to another party. According to Umar Sani, a chieftain of the PDP, Governor Adeleke opted out of the primary due to concerns over internal disputes within the party that could prevent it from producing a validly recognized candidate.
Sani, who chaired the three-man ad hoc delegates committee for Osun, explained that the governor believed that by defecting to another party, he could secure a ticket and later return to the PDP. However, the party rejected this strategy, insisting that all aspirants must contest on the PDP platform to preserve its integrity.
The primary election in Osun State was conducted peacefully, with Sani personally supervising the delegates’ election in Osogbo. The results were uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal and officially acknowledged. Sani emphasized that the party’s position is clear: all aspirants must use the PDP platform, and the party will not tolerate temporary defections to secure tickets from other parties.
The development highlights the internal dynamics within the PDP as the party prepares for upcoming elections. The party’s stance on Governor Adeleke’s alleged plan suggests that it is committed to maintaining its integrity and ensuring that its candidates contest on its platform. The decision also underscores the importance of party loyalty and the need for aspirants to adhere to party rules and procedures.
The situation in Osun State is being closely watched, and the outcome of the PDP’s primary election is expected to have significant implications for the party’s chances in the upcoming elections. As the electoral process unfolds, the PDP’s ability to manage its internal dynamics and present a united front will be crucial in determining its success. With the party’s commitment to upholding its integrity and adhering to its rules, the stage is set for a fascinating contest that will shape the political landscape in Osun State and beyond.