Najeem Folasayo Salam, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Osun governorship election, said his departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) was a decision driven by conscience. He made the statement in his acceptance speech after emerging as the ADC governorship candidate in Monday’s primary election in Osogbo, where he secured the party’s ticket by consensus with 520 votes.
Salam described his emergence not merely as a political development but as a moral calling. He thanked the ADC leadership and members for their trust and acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the mandate. Turning to the political landscape in Osun, he 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 him to leave the party. Salam emphasized that his departure was not an act of disloyalty but a conscientious choice.
He also criticized the withholding of local‑government allocations, which he said has weakened local governance, left schools struggling and communities neglected. In contrast, Salam presented the ADC as an alternative built on responsible leadership, transparency, development and unity, rejecting what he termed “politics of punishment.” He 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 party’s mandate and called for unity. His candidacy marks a significant development in Osun’s political landscape, offering a fresh perspective on governance focused on development, transparency and responsible leadership. The election’s outcome will be closely watched as Osun residents seek a new direction for their state.
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