Governor Ademola Adeleke’s exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join Accord has drawn criticism from Kenny Okolugbo, a former Special Adviser to the Senate President and public affairs analyst, who argues the move has proven disadvantageous. Okolugbo believes Adeleke should have remained within the PDP despite internal challenges, as leaving may weaken his political position and influence in the long run.
The governor announced his departure from the PDP in 2023, citing unresolved leadership disputes at the national level. These disputes led to deep factional divisions within the party, creating confusion among members and supporters. Legal battles further complicated matters, with contradictory court rulings on party leadership positions, making governance difficult and eroding trust in the party’s structure.
Okolugbo told DAILY POST that while the PDP faced real issues, abandoning it for a newer political platform like Accord was not the best strategic decision. He emphasized that the PDP remains one of Nigeria’s most established parties with a broad voter base, especially in the South-West region where Adeleke is active. Leaving such a foundation, he said, risks isolating the governor from key political allies and resources.
Accord, formed in 2023, is still building its infrastructure and lacks the national presence and institutional strength of the PDP. Critics argue that joining a fledgling party may limit Adeleke’s ability to influence national politics or secure broader coalitions for future elections. The move also raises questions about his political loyalty and whether it could alienate traditional supporters who remain loyal to the PDP.
Despite the challenges, Governor Adeleke maintains that his decision was necessary to pursue a more inclusive and reform-minded political path. He has expressed confidence that Accord can serve as a vehicle for change, particularly in addressing governance issues and promoting youth participation in politics. However, Okolugbo warns that without strong organizational backing, such ambitions may be difficult to realize.
Political analysts are closely watching how this shift affects Adeleke’s re-election prospects in 2027. The PDP’s internal crisis continues to unfold, with legal cases still pending and leadership tensions unresolved. Meanwhile, Accord is working to register candidates and build state chapters, a process that takes time and significant investment.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the political landscape in Osun State and beyond will likely be shaped by these party dynamics. Governor Adeleke’s choice to leave the PDP for Accord may yet prove pivotal, but for now, critics like Okolugbo believe he traded stability for uncertainty. The coming years will reveal whether this bold move pays off or becomes a misstep in his political journey.
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