The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has categorically denied Governor Ademola Adeleke’s assertion that the opposition party intends to leverage federal authority to sway the August 15, 2026, governorship election. The allegation, according to the APC, is an unfounded narrative designed to preemptively explain a potential electoral loss.
In a statement, APC Director of Media and Information Kola Olabisi described the claim as a “figment of the imagination” and asserted that the party will compete legitimately based on its growing support. He indicated that the accusation stems from discussions at a recent Accord Party stakeholders’ meeting, where Governor Adeleke, who is seeking re-election on the Accord Party platform, warned of federal interference. The APC spokesman stated his party is focused on “legitimate political mobilisation and strategic planning,” not unlawful manipulation.
Olabisi pointed to recent political defections as evidence of shifting momentum. He named Shuaib Oyedokun, Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, and Wole Oke—former allies of the governor—as prominent figures who have joined the APC, strengthening its organisational structure. The party also highlighted the support of Dotun Babayemi and Akin Ogunbiyi, stating these additions boost campaign efforts ahead of the poll. These realignments, the APC argued, demonstrate a changing political landscape in the state.
The party expressed confidence in its candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), describing him as a serious contender poised to win “convincingly without resorting to fraudulent means.”
Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke has intensified his warnings against electoral intimidation. Addressing Accord Party officials across Osun’s 332 wards, he stressed that federal resources must be reserved for governance, not election rigging. “Federal might is for good governance, not election rigging,” Adeleke said, urging voters to remain vigilant and defend the electoral process. He reaffirmed that only the people’s votes will determine the next governor.
The public exchange underscores the high stakes of the 2026 contest. Both parties are mobilising support amid claims of realigning political blocs, setting the stage for a fiercely contested election where issues of fairness and federal influence are already central to the campaign narrative.
