Najeem Folasayo Salam, the African Democratic Congress candidate for the Osun governorship election, has described his departure from the All Progressives Congress as a decision driven by conscience. Salam made this statement in his acceptance speech after emerging as the ADC governorship candidate in Monday’s primary election in Osogbo. He secured the party’s ticket through consensus, polling 520 votes.

Salam characterized his emergence as more than a political development, but a moral calling. He expressed gratitude to the ADC leadership and members for their trust, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with their mandate. Addressing the political landscape in Osun, Salam attributed the state’s challenges to years of poor judgment, internal contradictions, and misplaced priorities within the APC.

He explained that attempts at reform were met with resistance, which ultimately led to his decision to leave the party. Salam emphasized that his departure was not an act of disloyalty, but rather a conscientious choice. He also criticized the withholding of local government allocations, which has resulted in weakened local governance, struggling schools, and neglected communities.

In contrast, Salam presented the ADC as an alternative built on responsible leadership, transparency, development, and unity. The party, according to him, has rejected what he termed “politics of punishment.” Outlining his commitments, Salam pledged to prioritize workers’ welfare, revitalize education, empower youths, strengthen security, promote local enterprise, and restore public trust in governance.

As the 2026 governorship election approaches, Salam assured supporters that he would uphold the mandate of the party and called for unity. His candidacy marks a significant development in Osun’s political landscape, with the ADC offering a fresh perspective on governance. With his emergence, Salam is set to provide an alternative to the state’s existing political structure, focusing on development, transparency, and responsible leadership. The outcome of the election will be closely watched, as Osun residents seek a new direction for their state.